Lzh Mu Bu Vb Sk 15Covering the Head
Pāli / Sanskrit:Oguṇṭhita
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The Sutra on Covering the Head (Oguṇṭhita)
Background
The Oguṇṭhita sutta is a regulation in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, belonging to the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga. These are detailed rules concerning the conduct and attire of bhikkhunīs, intended to maintain discipline, purity, and the honor of the Sangha in the circumstances of daily life.
The background for the arising of this sutta concerns specific situations that occurred in the community of female monastics in the Buddha’s time, when certain bhikkhunīs violated rules of propriety and social suitability. The regulations in the Vinaya are not metaphysical precepts, but practical guidelines so that monastics may live harmoniously in community and inspire confidence among laypeople.
Main Content
The regulation “Covering the Head” (Oguṇṭhita) sets forth the conduct of a bhikkhunī when covering her head, especially in circumstances such as during meditation, outdoors, or when in contact with lay society. This is related to maintaining modesty and avoiding the arousing of desire or unnecessary attention from others.
According to the Vinaya tradition, a bhikkhunī should dress carefully and cover the body appropriately. Covering the head is not only a religious expression but also manifests respect for the Dharma, respect for oneself, and respect for those around one. The sutta clearly sets out which situations require covering, which situations do not, and the rules of conduct when there is a violation.
The detailed regulations in Oguṇṭhita include guidance on covering while walking, while sitting, when in contact with bhikkhus, or with laypeople. This is closely connected with the first five items among the sikkhāpadas, the training precepts, of bhikkhunīs, in which modesty is regarded as the foundation of the pure life.
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