Lzh Mi Bi Vb Sk 44Covering the Head (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaoguṇṭhita
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The Discourse on Covering the Head a Second Time (Dutiyaoguṇṭhita)
Context
The Discourse on Covering the Head a Second Time is a disciplinary regulation belonging to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. This text is located in the Vikkhepavatthu, the matters of distraction, where regulations concerning the conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs are recorded in relation to what is appropriate and inappropriate in the monastery.
Theravāda Buddhism values the cultivation of discipline in body, speech, and mind as the foundation of the path to awakening. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a set of rigid regulations, but an expression of the Noble Eightfold Path (Ariyo Aṭṭhaṅgiko Maggo), helping the Sangha maintain harmony and create optimal conditions for practice. Regulations concerning clothing and appearance reflect respect for religion and the standards of renunciants.
Main Content
The Discourse on Covering the Head a Second Time concerns the issue of covering or veiling the head (oguṇṭhita) in the context of the daily activities of monastics. Specifically, it stipulates that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs should not cover the head with a robe or cloth when walking for alms (piṇḍapāta), attending recitations of discourses (sutta), or participating in assemblies of the Sangha.
Complete covering of the head is regarded as a careless and inelegant action, contrary to the life of practice. The deeper reason behind this regulation is to maintain heedfulness (appamāda) and dignity in every step and every action. When the monastic’s face is uncovered, they can more easily be clearly aware of the surrounding environment and of their own psychological responses.
This regulation also reflects the principle of meditation (samādhi), keeping the mind awake and not letting mindfulness slacken. In addition, pride or hiding the face can create an impure disposition, obstructing one’s own progress in practice and affecting the bhikkhu’s ability to guide those who have faith.
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