Lzh Mg Bi Vb Sk 28Lowered Eyes (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu
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Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu Sutta (Lowered Eyes, Second Time)
Background
The Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu Sutta is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga — the regulations pertaining especially to female monastics. The title "Lowered Eyes, Second Time" indicates that this is one of the occasions on which the Buddha or the senior members of the Sangha discussed the same matter a second time, thereby establishing a specific rule of practice.
In its historical context, the Vinaya Piṭaka was compiled to regulate the conduct of the monastic community, and in particular the community of nuns (bhikkhunī saṅgha). The rule concerning "lowering the eyes" — that is, the restraint of sight (cakkhu-saṃvara) — is one of the foundational elements of Buddhist practice, intended to train the nuns in the restraint of the sense faculties and the governance of the mind.
Main Content
This sutta concerns the practice of mindful and respectful use of the faculty of sight. Specifically, it instructs the nuns to "lower the eyes" — that is, not to allow the gaze to wander, especially when in the presence of men or in circumstances that may give rise to a mind of craving and attachment. This "lowering of the eyes" is not a merely physical act, but is an expression of mindfulness and restraint in conduct.
According to the Vinaya tradition, the lowering of the eyes is regarded as part of the Pañca-Indriyasaṃvara — the restraint of the five sense faculties. This underscores the understanding that guarding the gateways of the senses is the first step in developing ethical virtue (Sīla) and meditative collectedness (Samādhi).
The second occasion to which the sutta refers may indicate that this matter was discussed more than once within the monastic community, reflecting its importance. On each successive discussion, the Buddha or the senior monastics further emphasized particular details or broadened the scope of application of this rule.
Practical Significance
The Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu Sutta teaches us that the practice of the Buddha's Dharma encompasses not only mindfulness of the mind, but also the careful governance of even the smallest details of bodily conduct.
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