Lzh Dg Bi Vb Sk 4Lifted Robe (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaukkhittaka
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SUTTA ON RAISING THE ROBE FOR THE SECOND TIME (DUTIYAUKKHITTAKA)
Background
Dutiyaukkhittaka (Lifted Robe for the second time) is one of the training rules (sikkhāpada) found in the Sutta Vibhaṅga of the Vinaya Piṭaka, within the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga. This sutta was recorded in the historical context in which the Buddha established the bhikkhunī community at Sāvatthi. These rules receive special attention in order to protect the morality (sīla) and purity of female practitioners, as well as to prevent improper actions that could bring reproach upon the Sangha.
Theravāda monasteries value maintaining strict ethical standards. Dutiyaukkhittaka is a representative example of how the Buddha and the earliest elders identified unsuitable behavior, thereby helping disciples understand the boundary between pure and impure action.
Main Content
Dutiyaukkhittaka concerns the act of lifting the robe (ukkhittaka) twice or more in certain circumstances. According to the rules of the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, when a nun lifts her robe and unnecessarily exposes her body, especially in situations of interaction with men or the public, this action can lead to suspicion concerning her morality.
This rule was established to protect the honor of each individual monastic and also to protect public confidence in the Sangha. It reflects the principle of “living in harmony with society” (lokavutti), living in a way suitable to society while still maintaining the highest ethical standards.
This sutta is not an absolute prohibition, but a warning about actions easily misunderstood. A bhikkhunī should not lift her robe more than three times, or for the second time, in unnecessary circumstances, because this may cause loss of confidence or give rise to unwholesome speculation among observers.
Practical Meaning
Dutiyaukkhittaka teaches us about clear awareness (sampajañña), the clear knowing of our actions.
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