Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Sk 48Swaying the Head (2nd)

The Second Scripture on Swaying the Head (Dutiyasīsappacālaka)

Background

This scripture belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Pāli Canon, representing the Theravāda Buddha-Dharma tradition. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of rules of virtue and discipline (vinaya) established by the Buddha to govern the community of monks and nuns, protect the spirit of practice, and maintain the purity of the Sangha. The scripture "Dutiyasīsappacālaka" (The Second Swaying of the Head) is found in the section dealing with specific disciplinary matters related to misconduct by monastics or special situations in community management.

In this context, the word "sīsappacālaka" means "swaying" or "movement of the head," suggesting that this scripture concerns a bodily action or outward expression that needs to be addressed according to disciplinary rules. It is part of a series of detailed regulations intended to maintain order and respect in the monastic community.

Main Content

Although the specific content of this scripture has not yet been fully translated, based on the structure of the Vinaya Piṭaka, this scripture may concern the handling of specific actions performed by members of the monastic community. Scriptures in the Vinaya Piṭaka often begin by describing a specific situation, after which the Buddha gives guidance or a disciplinary decision.

The phrase "second time" (dutiya) indicates that this is the second time a similar matter was addressed, or a variant of a rule already stated. This reflects the method of the Vinaya Piṭaka: establishing basic principles and then dealing with particular cases to clarify the intent of the rule.

The regulations in the Vinaya Piṭaka are divided into many categories according to severity, from minor faults requiring correction (dukkata) to more serious offenses (saṅghādisesa). This scripture, within the context of specific disciplinary handling, helps the Sangha understand how to apply general principles to practical situations.