Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Pc 168Brushing Hair
Pāli / Sanskrit:Brushing hair
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Explanation of the Sutra on Brushing Hair
Background
The Sutra on Brushing Hair belongs to the Pācittiya section in the Theravāda Vinaya tradition, rules of restraint connected with small actions in the daily life of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. These rules were established by the Buddha Gotama to protect the purity of the Sangha, help limit minor desires, and develop mindful attention in every detail.
The matter of brushing hair is considered in the Vinaya because it relates to adornment and attention to bodily appearance, a point that can give rise to sensual desire (kāma-chanda) in the monastic mind. For one who has gone forth, maintaining simplicity in one’s way of life and reducing attention to appearance are important parts of the path of practice. Therefore, this text does not reject bodily hygiene, but establishes a wholesome boundary between necessity and excess.
Main Content
The regulations related to brushing hair in the Pācittiya rules state that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs should not pay excessive attention or devote too much time to brushing hair, which may seem basic but is in fact training in skillfulness of mind (samādhi). The text does not completely prohibit the act; in fact, those who have gone forth are permitted to maintain bodily cleanliness for health. However, motivation and manner of performance are carefully considered.
According to the Pāli Canon, brushing hair should be done only when necessary, with a state of mind free from desire for beauty or attention from others. If someone spends too much time or energy brushing hair in an unbalanced way, this may indicate a loss of mindfulness concerning the true purpose of going forth. Pācittiya requires a monastic to acknowledge and confess if this boundary is reached, as a wholesome means of instruction rather than punishment.
Practical Meaning
The Sutra on Brushing Hair extends an important principle in the Vinaya: every action, however small, is an opportunity to practice mindfulness and overcome subtle mental stains (anusaya).
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