Lzh Mi Bu Pm Sk 84Sandals
Pāli / Sanskrit:Upāhanāruḷha
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Explanation of the Upāhanāruḷha Discourse (The Discourse on Sandals)
Background
The Upāhanāruḷha discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, belonging to the Pātimokkha, the basic code of training for bhikkhus. The appearance of this discourse is related to the rules of daily life in the Saṅgha, where even small details such as how to use sandals are clearly regulated in order to develop concentration and mental discipline.
In the context of ancient India, sandals were not only everyday objects but were also related to subtle conduct of body, speech, and mind within the monastic community. This discourse reflects the mind of the Buddha, the Teacher who not only guided the essences of the Dharma, but also attended to each concrete action and each moment of his disciples, because these very actions form the foundation of comprehensive practice.
Main Content
The Upāhanāruḷha discourse concerns rules related to wearing sandals when moving through special spaces such as monasteries, stupas, or other sacred areas. Specifically, this discourse states that bhikkhus are not allowed to enter solemn places while still wearing sandals on their feet, an action regarded as lacking respect toward the place of practice and toward oneself.
The deeper reason behind this rule is not merely a matter of hygiene or social politeness, but is related to the concepts of samādhi (concentration) and sīla (virtue). When a monastic voluntarily removes sandals upon entering solemn places, that act expresses attentiveness, reverence, and the ability to control the body. It is an external expression of an internal spirit: setting aside what is nonessential in order to focus on what is truly important.
The discourse records specific cases in which bhikkhus who violate this rule are criticized or must make certain corrections. At the same time, however, this rule also provides reasonable exceptions, such as in cases of harsh climate or when the practitioner is injured.
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