Lzh Mi Bu Vb Sk 39Squatting
Pāli / Sanskrit:Ukkuṭika
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Ukkuṭika Sutta — On the Squatting Posture
Background
The Ukkuṭika Sutta appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Sutta Vibhaṅga, whose purpose is to explain in detail the rules of moral training for the Sangha. Its background arises when the Buddha and the bhikkhus were walking meditation or carrying out various duties. This sutta concerns posture and the way monastics maintain the body during practice.
The posture called ukkuṭika, squatting, is a traditional form of sitting in ancient India, especially in spiritual training and meditation. It is not the orthodox meditation posture, such as the full lotus or half lotus, but a highly practical posture in certain circumstances, such as when space is lacking or when practice occurs in places unsuited to ordinary sitting posture.
Main Content
The Ukkuṭika Sutta addresses regulations related to maintaining discipline in squatting. According to the customary discipline of the early Buddhist Sangha, this posture is regarded as a legitimate method for monastics to practice concentration (samādhi) in special situations. However, the sutta emphasizes that squatting should not become a lazy habit or be used contrary to the purpose of practice.
The rule states that bhikkhus should choose a posture appropriate to bodily health and the aim of meditation. If one squats too long or improperly, it may harm one’s health, and this goes against the principle of protecting health taught by the Buddha. The rule also clearly identifies which circumstances permit this posture and when one should change to other postures, such as sitting in lotus, cross-legged lotus, or sitting upright on a chair.
This sutta is also related to the principle that one should not disturb the practice of others or cause negative effects in the monastic community. Choosing to squat is not for display or to attract attention, but must be for a valid reason of practice.
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