Lzh Mu Bu Vb Sk 82Covering the Head
Pāli / Sanskrit:Oguṇṭhita
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Explanation of the Oguṇṭhita Sutta (Covering the Head)
Background
The Oguṇṭhita Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the regulations concerning the female renunciant order. The background of this sutta is connected with the Buddha’s establishment of prohibitions (Sekhiya Sutta) in order to maintain discipline and a dignified outward appearance in the Sangha.
The regulation on covering the head arose from practical needs in managing the monastic community. At that time, some female bhikkhus did not observe proper form, dress, and attire, leading to misunderstandings or a lack of aesthetic dignity in the eyes of the faithful community and the public. The Buddha then instructed the female monastics to understand that covering the head was not an arbitrary matter, but an expression of discipline and respect for the rules.
Main Content
In the Vinaya Piṭaka context, the rule on covering the head (oguṇṭhita) is presented as a prohibition in the Sekhiya Sikkhāpada, the minor rules related to behavior and deportment. Specifically, female bhikkhus are not to leave the head bare or uncovered in certain situations, especially when joining communal assemblies, going to ports, or attending Dharma study sessions.
This regulation was given not for narrow religious reasons, but because the Buddha wanted the female Sangha to maintain a stable and dignified appearance. Covering the head in public is a sign of self-discipline, necessary to distinguish a practitioner from ordinary people. A female bhikkhu who covers her head expresses respect for the Noble Dharma, for the grace of having received the discipline, and for herself.
This rule is not intended to constrain or oppress, but is part of the “dhamma vinaya,” the Dharma and discipline, which the Buddha issued to protect the integrity of the monastic community. In disputes or cases handled by a formal disciplinary assembly, the practice or non-practice of this regulation would be carefully considered.
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