Lzh Mg Bu Pm Sk 18Covering the Head (2nd)

Sutta Dutiyaoguṇṭhita (Covering the Head, Second Time)

Context

This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, which records in detail the rules of practice and discipline for the Sangha. Dutiyaoguṇṭhita is a subject relating to the act of "covering the head" — an act regarded as lacking in reverence or as improper within the context of communal monastic life and the practice of the Dharma.

The determination of which actions are inappropriate, and which postures or modes of conduct violate the spirit of practice, forms an important part of the Vinaya Piṭaka. These rules were established not to restrict freedom, but to help monastics maintain mental composure, show respect for the Triple Gem — the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha — and cultivate a life of harmony within the community.

Covering the head, as mentioned in Vinaya texts, is commonly cited as an act expressing disrespect or ill-breeding. This second sutta on the matter indicates a repeated emphasis, reflecting the importance of the rule and the need to educate members of the Sangha regarding appropriate standards of conduct.

Main Content

The Vinaya Piṭaka prescribes that bhikkhunīs or bhikkhus should not cover the head (oguṇṭhita) casually in certain circumstances, particularly in the presence of the Buddha or during important communal activities. The act of covering the head may signify mental absence, lack of respect, or even a sign of laxity in one's practice.

The repetition of this rule within the Vinaya Piṭaka indicates that it is not a trivial regulation, but rather a standard regarded by the Buddha and the Sangha as necessary to uphold. This reflects the attitude of the Early Buddhist community: every detail of conduct carries spiritual significance, and a certain strictness in discipline serves to protect the wisdom and meditative concentration of those in training.