Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Pc 170Combing Hair
Pāli / Sanskrit:Combing hair
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THE SUTRA ON NEAT HAIR
Background
This text belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically within the training rules of the Buddhist Sangha. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of ethical and disciplinary regulations that monks and nuns must follow in order to maintain purity and harmony in the community of study and practice.
The background of this text concerns practical matters in the life of monks and nuns. On the occasion of disciples failing to observe standards of cleanliness and personal dignity, the Buddha skillfully established principles of conduct for their education. Caring for the body in a reasonable way is not a trivial matter, but expresses respect for the Dharma, the Sangha, and others in the community.
Main Content
This text concerns the matter of combing the hair neatly as part of the daily life rules of monastics. Neat hair is not only a matter of personal hygiene but is also related to self-discipline, energy (viriya), and mindfulness (sati) in the life of study and practice.
According to the principles of Theravāda training, those who have gone forth should not leave their hair long, loose, and disordered. Combing the hair neatly is regarded as part of the principles for bodily self-restraint. The Buddha taught that when one cares for the body carefully and gradually, the monastic person is not governed by ignorance (avidyā) and mental defilements (kilesa). The act of combing hair thus becomes an occasion for practicing mindfulness, a meditative activity in daily life.
These regulations also have a social purpose. A monk or nun who appears neat and clean can make a positive impression on the lay community, thereby strengthening the people’s faith in and support for the Sangha. This contributes to the enduring transmission of the Dharma.
Practical Meaning
These rules should not be understood mechanically.
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