Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Sk 90Covering the Head
Pāli / Sanskrit:Oguṇṭhita
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COVERING THE HEAD SUTTA (OGUṆṬHITA)
Background
The Covering the Head Sutta (Oguṇṭhita) is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, one of the oldest bodies of disciplinary law still transmitted in Early Buddhism. This code regulates the conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs within the Sangha. The Covering the Head Sutta concerns one of the rules about dignity and courtesy in the daily actions of those gone forth.
The context of this rule arises from the Buddha’s understanding of the distinction between the conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs and worldly life. Covering the head is not an accidental action, but is directly connected with the way respect is expressed, intentionality in action, and different standards of courtesy in certain circumstances.
Main Content
The regulation concerning “covering the head” (Oguṇṭhita) in the Vinaya Piṭaka relates to whether bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs may cover the head with a robe or cloth in certain circumstances, such as when it is cold, when traveling on the road, or in special weather conditions. However, the rule also clearly distinguishes which circumstances are appropriate for covering the head and when it should not be done.
In particular, during solemn activities such as prayer, attendance at blessing ceremonies, or when standing before senior monks and elders in the Sangha, having the head uncovered is regarded as an expression of respect and submission. This expresses a basic principle: the body of a practitioner is not merely a biological mechanism, but a means for expressing reverence and the mind’s aspiration for the Dharma.
The Vinaya Piṭaka also stipulates that covering the head must not be used as a reason to avoid presence, hide, or display arrogance. The balance between adapting to natural conditions, such as covering the head when cold, and maintaining solemnity, leaving the head uncovered when respect needs to be shown, is the core element of this rule.
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