Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Pc 166Adorning like a wife
Pāli / Sanskrit:Adorning like a wife
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THE DISCOURSE ON ADORNING LIKE A WIFE (Pāṭimokkha - Bhikkhunī Pācittiya 166)
Background
This discourse appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Pācittiya section, the secondary disciplinary precepts for women renunciants (bhikkhunīs). These regulations were laid down by the Buddha to protect the blessed conduct of holy women, maintain communal discipline, and prevent suspicions from the outside society.
The historical context shows that women among the fourfold community needed clear guidance on how to preserve outward appearance and basic conduct. In ancient Indian society, clothing and adornment for women could be understood either as a sign of initial commitment to practice or, conversely, as a sign of attachment to worldly beauty. Therefore, the rules concerning "adornment" are not merely formal customs, but core protections of the Dharma (dharma-raksā) within the Teaching.
Main Content
The title "Adorning like a wife" clearly indicates that this discourse treats the question of women renunciants not adorning themselves or dressing like worldly women, especially in ways intended to attract attention or sensual desire from others.
According to Pācittiya, a precept whose violation requires confession before the Sangha, women renunciants should not use means of bodily decoration such as facial makeup (permitted only reasonably in illness or special circumstances), oils, perfumes, bracelets, or similar things whose main purpose is to attract. This conduct is considered a violation of morality (sīla) because it is connected with risks: delight in appearance, loss of mental concentration, or the creation of conditions likely to lead to sensual desire.
This rule is not a complete prohibition of hygiene or bodily care, but a distinction between "reasonable care" (to preserve health and suitability for the religious life) and "excessive adornment" (a sign of attachment to beauty and sensuality).
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