Lzh Mi Bu Vb Sk 21Swaying the Head
Pāli / Sanskrit:Sīsappacālaka
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Sīsappacālaka Sutta — Swaying the Head
Background
The Sīsappacālaka Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition of the Buddha-Dharma, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the disciplinary section for female bhikkhus. This sutta is recorded in the Pāli Canon and concerns rules regarding behavior that shows disrespect or expresses a proud attitude within the renunciant community.
In the context of the Buddhist order, the Vinaya texts are not merely restrictive rules, but also guidance helping bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs cultivate noble character and practice in accordance with the Dharma. Small details, such as the way bodily attitude is maintained, were regarded by the Buddha as expressions of mental states, respect, and discipline in practice.
Main Content
The title “Swaying the Head” (Sīsappacālaka) means “shaking the head” or “nodding the head.” This sutta refers to the action of moving the head back and forth carelessly or proudly. According to the Vinaya, this action is regarded as an expression of lack of mental focus, lack of respect, or the display of dissatisfaction in contexts of practice.
The specific content of this sutta has not yet been fully translated; however, based on the general context of the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, this sutta likely handles a concrete situation in the order, possibly involving:
A bhikkhunī shaking her head in a proud or disrespectful manner when hearing instruction, attending gatherings of the Sangha, or receiving training rules. This action is regarded as a breach of discipline because it reflects a mind that is not pure, not concentrated, and lacking obedience.
The Vinaya states that such bodily actions are not appropriate to the bearing of a true practitioner. A bhikkhunī practicing in accordance with the Dharma must maintain a dignified appearance, a stable state of mind, and conduct consistent with the vows of training.
Practical Meaning
The Sīsappacālaka Sutta teaches us a profound lesson about the connection between body, speech, and mind.
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