Lzh Dg Bi Pm Sk 84Not Stretch Feet Towards Stupa
Pāli / Sanskrit:Not stretch feet towards stupa
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EXPLANATION OF THE SUTRA: DO NOT STRETCH THE FEET TOWARD A STUPA
Context
This sutra is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the collection of basic disciplinary prohibitions of the Theravāda Buddhist community. It reflects a regulation concerning bodily conduct in rites of reverence toward the Three Jewels, specifically the attitude of respect toward a stupa (Caitanya/Stupa) - the place where relics of Buddhas or holy monks are preserved.
According to the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka was compiled after the First Council, under the authority of Buddha Shakyamuni. The disciplinary regulations within it are intended to protect the purity and dignity of the Buddhist Sangha, and at the same time to express reverence for the Three Jewels - the three treasures of the Buddhadharma: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha.
A stupa (caitanya) in Theravāda Buddhism is not only a religious architectural structure, but a symbol of Nirvaan (Nibbāna) - the realm of liberation realized by the Buddha. Therefore, our conduct before a stupa reflects an attitude of awe toward the Dharma and aspiration for awakening.
Main Content
The sutra stipulates that devotees and those connected with the Buddhist community must not stretch their feet toward a stupa or any object of worship. This action is considered coarse, disrespectful, and in violation of the principle of Anusāsana (instruction) concerning proper conduct.
In Pāli, the word "pada" (foot) not only has a physical meaning but also symbolizes action, the steps taken on the path of awakening. Stretching the feet - a careless and uncontrolled action - toward a stupa is both an inner and outer violation. Inwardly, it reflects a careless mind lacking mindfulness (Sati); outwardly, it expresses disdain toward a symbol of the Dharma.
This regulation also aims to maintain Saṃgha Vinaya - communal discipline. By establishing certain standards of action, monks and laypeople learn to control the body and train the mind in a wholesome direction.
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