Lzh Dg Bi Vb Sk 63Not Enter Stupa With Shoes in hand

Commentary on the Text: Not Entering a Stupa With Shoes or Sandals in Hand

Background

This text belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, the Pāli Canon, and is part of the rules of virtuous practice for the Buddhist Sangha. The Vinaya Piṭaka was compiled to protect the spirit of practice and maintain order in the Sangha community. Regulations concerning outward conduct are not the final goal, but means that help monastics concentrate on cultivating the mind of the path and revering the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha).

Reverence for stupas, sacred towers containing relics of the Buddha or of arhats, is an important expression in Buddhism. A stupa is not only an architectural work but also a symbol of permanence and purity. Therefore, actions when approaching a stupa must reflect respect and purity.

Main Content

The text states that when entering the area of a stupa, a monastic should not carry shoes or sandals in the hand. This rule has two related aspects:

First, in terms of reverence: shoes and sandals are considered coarse objects, connected with dust and unclean places. Bringing shoes and sandals, especially carrying them in the hand, into a sacred place such as a stupa is considered a lack of respect. Leaving shoes and sandals aside before entering shows an attitude of humbling oneself before what is higher and sacred.

Second, in terms of virtuous training: this is a lesson in being conscious of one’s actions. A monastic must reflect before acting and must not be casual or heedless. Such subtle rules help train the mind, making consciousness more gentle and awake.

In addition, not bringing shoes and sandals into a stupa also reflects a general principle in Buddhism: respect sacred places and respect objects regarded as worthy of veneration. This is part of “conduct-discipline” (sīla), ethical behavior, one of the three trainings (Triśikṣā) fundamental to Buddhism.