Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 203Making Waist Slender
Pāli / Sanskrit:Making waist slender
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Explanation of the Discourse on Making the Waist Slender
Background
This discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the early Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the table of protective rules, for bhikkhunīs. It is one of the detailed rules governing aspects of daily life for the community of nuns in the Buddhist Sangha.
The background of this rule relates to issues of control of the body and self-presentation in the life of practice. In the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka is regarded as practical guidance supporting practice of the path, helping bhikkhunīs maintain a pure appearance and keep the mind from being distracted by tendencies toward bodily pleasure.
Main Content
The rule “Making the Waist Slender” addresses the matter of a bhikkhunī intentionally making her waist thin by such means as binding tightly around the body or using other methods to change the shape of her body. This action is regarded as violating basic principles of practice.
The reason for this prohibition is rooted in three core principles: first, it is an act of self-tormenting the body and part of nurturing craving and pride; second, it reflects attention to outward appearance, which may lead to comparing oneself with others and produce the desire to be admired; third, such actions may be perceived by laypeople as a form of display or seeking attention, thereby diminishing the image of the Sangha.
The rule especially emphasizes that the work of practice is not concerned with altering the body’s shape to create an “attractive” or “perfect” appearance. Instead, bhikkhunīs are encouraged to focus on cultivating the mind, developing spiritual strength, and understanding the inner nature of suffering.
Practical Meaning
The deeper meaning of this rule extends beyond the specific bodily action.
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