Lzh Dg Bu Pm Sk 20Lowered Eyes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Okkhittacakkhu
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THE LOWERED EYES SUTTA (OKKHITTACAKKHU)
Background
The Lowered Eyes Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, especially the section regulating the duties and practices of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs within the monastic community. In the context of Theravāda Buddhism, the Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a collection of punitive rules, but an expression of practical ethics, a means of training that transforms the mind and protects harmony in the Sangha.
Okkhittacakkhu means "lowered eyes" or "eyes cast down," indicating an appropriate and humble manner of observation while moving. This reflects the Buddhist way of life: restraining the senses, managing intention, and not allowing unwholesome emotions such as craving or aversion to flare up through contact with objects. This sutta was taught in the context of the Buddha instructing his disciples on how to behave in public places or while walking.
Main Content
In the Pāli Canon tradition, "lowered eyes" is an expression of discipline over the senses (indriya-saṃvara). When a bhikkhu is walking, traveling on foot, or standing still, the eyes should be directed toward a modest distance, usually about six cubits in front of the feet. This is not due to fear or self-abasement, but to collectedness and control of the mind, so as to avoid distraction.
The sutta teaches that when the eyes do not "go straight ahead," seeking attractive sights, the body naturally preserves purity. Lowered eyes also symbolize the absence of ambition to gaze directly at what others possess or at beauty that stirs emotion. This is the foundation of sense restraint (indriya-saṃvara), one of the three foundations of ethics in Theravāda Buddhism.
The attitude of lowered eyes also reflects four standard modes of conduct: patience, lack of display, not chasing sensual pleasures, and sincerity in every step. This is the daily practice of those who have gone forth and wish to cultivate the spiritual life.
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