Lzh Mi Bu Vb Sk 37Lowered Eyes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Okkhittacakkhu
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THE SUTTA ON LOWERED EYES
Okkhittacakkhu Sutta
Background
The Sutta on Lowered Eyes (Okkhittacakkhu, in Pāli “okkhitta” = lowered, “cakkhu” = eye) belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, where the rules of training and conduct for monks and nuns are recorded. This sutta does not teach a transcendent doctrine, but concerns daily practical details that help bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs practice pure diligence, protecting the senses from unnecessary disturbances.
In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, rules concerning how to guard the sense faculties are recorded in detail, because the Buddha taught that control of the senses is the first step in Buddhist practice. This is the foundation for developing concentration (samādhi) and wisdom (paññā).
Main Content
This sutta focuses on the image of a practitioner with “lowered eyes.” This should not be understood as shame or weakness, but as a sign of mindfulness and diligence. When the eyes are lowered mindfully, the practitioner avoids being distracted by external sights.
According to the Theravāda tradition, “lowering the eyes” is a form of indriya samvara, restraint of the sense faculties. The Buddha himself is described as usually looking downward at a natural distance, without letting his gaze wander aimlessly around. This helps the mind avoid being drawn into sensual desires or unnecessary distractions.
The sutta notes that a truly well-conducted practitioner, whether walking or sitting, keeps the eyes focused naturally ahead, often at about the length of an arm, without glancing restlessly to the left and right. This behavior, though small, deeply reflects a quiet and clearly directed mind. It is the image of a bhikkhu not dominated by illusions, curiosity, or entertaining factors outside the Dharma.
Practical Meaning
The practical meaning of this sutta lies in recognizing that practice is not only a matter of great undertakings, but also of seemingly small details.
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