Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Dh Sk 35Arms Akimbo (2nd)

The Dutiyakhambhakata Sutta — Arms Akimbo (Second Time)

Background

The Dutiyakhambhakata Sutta is one of the important disciplinary regulations recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. This text belongs to the Bhikkhu Vibhaṅga, the detailed explanation of training rules for bhikkhus.

The background of this text arose from specific events in the Sangha community during the Buddha's time. When bhikkhus did not yet have clear rules about conduct in certain circumstances, the Buddha declared regulations to maintain the discipline and purity of the Sangha. The phrase "second time" (Dutiya) often indicates that this is a restatement or further clarification of a rule already mentioned earlier.

The title "Arms Akimbo" (Khambhakata) describes a specific posture: the condition in which a person raises the two arms, bends the elbows at right angles, and places them on the hips. In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, this is not merely a physical posture, but also an expression of attitude, arrogance, or excessive self-confidence, attitudes the Buddha regarded as inconsistent with the Buddhist spirit of humility and respect.

Main Content

This text regulates the conduct and attitude bhikkhus must observe. Specifically, when bhikkhus participate in communal activities, attend Sangha meetings, or interact with lay devotees, they must not hold the posture of "arms akimbo," because this posture reflects arrogance, conceit, or disrespect.

This rule is also connected with other regulations in the Vinaya Piṭaka concerning how to maintain one's outward bearing (iriyāpatha). Bhikkhus are taught always to maintain a serene and humble manner in everything they do, whether walking, standing, sitting, or lying down. Every action is seen as an opportunity to express the depth of a mind turned away from worldliness and the spirit of training in the Dharma.