Lzh Mi Bi Vb Sk 16Clasping Knees

DISCOURSE ON CLASPING THE KNEES

Background

The discourse “On Clasping the Knees” (Pallatthika) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the training rules for bhikkhunīs. This is part of the Pātimokkha system, the basic precepts that noble renunciants must observe. The Vibhaṅga contains details for each precept: the background of its arising, cases of application and non-application, in order to help practitioners understand the spirit of each rule.

This discourse concerns an improper posture in the bhikkhunī community. The title “Clasping Knees” describes a sitting posture lacking respect, which may cause discomfort to others or express a lack of mindfulness in practice. The historical background shows that the Buddha and his disciples often reminded practitioners to attend to the details of conduct, because these small habits reflect the state of mind and affect the shared environment of practice.

Main Content

In the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the discourse stipulates that bhikkhunīs should not sit in the pallatthika posture, that is, a sitting posture with the legs drawn up and the two knees close together, often regarded as undignified or casual. This rule arises from the spirit of protecting brahmacariya and maintaining the seriousness of the noble life.

The Vibhaṅga states clearly: if a bhikkhunī sits in the pallatthika posture before someone who is not the Buddha, not the Sangha, and not a bhikkhu, and those who see it feel discomfort or displeasure, that bhikkhunī commits an offense. However, the discourse also states exemptions: if there is a valid reason, such as illness or health difficulty, or if the bhikkhunī does not know that the posture causes distress to others, there is no offense.

This principle reflects the philosophy of the Vinaya Piṭaka: every small act is examined through three criteria: its effect on others, the practitioner’s intention, and awareness (sampajañña, clear mindfulness).