Lzh Dg Bu Pm Sk 64Not Go Around Stupa Wearing Shoes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Not go around stupa wearing shoes
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Discourse on Not Circumambulating a Stupa Wearing Sandals
Background
The Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition records the moral rules and discipline for the Buddhist Sangha. This discourse appears in the section of rules concerning respectful conduct toward sacred structures, especially stupas, where the relics of the Blessed Buddha or highly attained arhats are enshrined.
During the Buddha’s lifetime, these stupas were not only religious architecture but also symbols of sacred presence. Monks and nuns needed to observe proper conduct when approaching these places, because this reflected reverent intention toward the Three Jewels: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. This discourse was therefore included in the Vinaya to maintain cleanliness, respect, and discipline within the monastic community.
Main Content
The discourse states that members of the Sangha should not circumambulate a stupa (cakkavattana) while wearing sandals. This is not an arbitrary rule, but an expression of dignity and reverence.
Wearing sandals while circumambulating a stupa is regarded as disrespectful because sandals are objects that come into contact with dirty ground and unclean places. When entering a sacred area such as a stupa, removing sandals is not only a physical act but also an expression of spiritual attitude: setting aside the impurities of the world and approaching the sacred place with cleanliness and solemnity.
The act of “going around” (pradakṣiṇa or cakkavattana) a stupa is a common devotional practice in Theravāda Buddhism. It symbolizes protection, reverence, and homage. When performing this act, a monastic should reveal respect through each step and each breath. Not wearing sandals is the direct and complete way of expressing this.
Practical Meaning
From the perspective of modern practice, this discourse teaches us the importance of small details in acts of reverence.
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