Lzh Mu Bi Vb Sk 25Arms Akimbo
Pāli / Sanskrit:Khambhakata
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COLLECTED KHAMBHAKATA SUTTA
Interpretation of the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Theravāda Tradition
Background
The Khambhakata Sutta (Pāli: Khambhakata, provisionally translated "hands at the hips") is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically in the Bhikkhu-vibhaṅga or Bhikkhunī-vibhaṅga rules. It is part of the detailed code regulating the attitude, actions, and etiquette of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs in the Sangha community.
The background for the arising of this text is connected with specific violations that occurred in the Sangha while the Buddha was still alive. Bhikkhus or bhikkhunīs engaged in actions not in accord with the spirit of practice; from this, the Buddha or senior elders taught the Dharma and established prohibitions to preserve discipline, encourage right mindfulness (sammā-sati), and maintain dignity.
Main Content
The Khambhakata Sutta centers on the action of "placing the hands at the hips" (khambhakata), a bodily posture or action often marked by arrogance, carelessness, or lack of dignity. In the context of Buddhist practice, this posture is regarded as unsuitable to the humility and respect that one gone forth should maintain.
According to the Vinaya tradition, this text may stipulate that bhikkhus should not place their hands at their hips when teaching the Dharma, attending Sangha assemblies, walking into villages, or in circumstances requiring reverence and concentration. This action is considered a form of lack of mindfulness or an expression of a conceited mind, which may negatively affect the image and reputation of the Sangha.
This rule also reflects a broader principle: the bodily action (kāya-karma) of a practitioner must be controlled, conscious, and in harmony with the environment and people around them. Every gesture and every posture of the body should express a purified, concentrated, and respectful state of mind.
Practical Meaning
The Khambhakata Sutta teaches a profound lesson about the importance of mindfulness in every daily action.
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