Lzh Dg Bi Vb Sk 8Covering the Head (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaoguṇṭhita
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Commentary on the Dutiyaoguṇṭhita Text (Covering the Head - Second Time)
Background
The Dutiyaoguṇṭhita text belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically the Suttavibhaṅga of the Bhikkhu Pātimokkha, the code of life for bhikkhus in the Theravāda tradition. It is one of the most detailed disciplinary regulations in the early Buddhist monastic community, reflecting the single purpose of the Blessed Buddha: to protect the purity of the Sangha and preserve correct orientation in practice.
This text was recorded from the time when the Buddha was still alive, when members of the Sangha encountered specific situations connected with conduct and attitude in the monastery. The story “Covering the Head (2nd)” records a repeated situation or a variation of conduct related to covering the head, recognized by the Blessed Buddha as requiring clear guidance for the whole Sangha to apply consistently.
Main Content
In this text, the Blessed Buddha establishes a specific rule concerning bhikkhus covering the head. The act of covering the head, whether with a cloak, blanket, or any covering, is regarded as discourteous in the monastic context, especially during recitation, meditation, or when meeting senior monks or laypeople.
This rule is not groundless, but based on specific situations. The Blessed Buddha recognized that when bhikkhus covered the head, it reflected an attitude lacking respect, losing focus in practice, or showing disregard toward those around them. Therefore, the Buddha laid down a prohibition of this conduct and required bhikkhus always to keep the head uncovered, expressing alertness, humility, and respect.
This rule belongs to the category of “dukkaṭa,” unskillful conduct that gives rise to shame and is inappropriate to the monastic life. When a bhikkhu violates it, he needs to confess the fault and correct himself.
Practical Meaning
The Dutiyaoguṇṭhita text teaches us a profound lesson about wakefulness and reverence in each daily action.
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