Lzh Sarv Bi Pm Sk 98Shoes
Pāli / Sanskrit:Pāduka
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Discourse on Sandals (Pāduka)
Background
The Pāduka Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Early Buddhist tradition, recording regulations concerning the clothing and daily requisites of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. In the context of the life of practice in ancient monasteries, the regulation of sandals or shoes is part of the Vinaya, the ethical and communal disciplinary rules that help maintain harmony and a spirit of humility.
This discourse arose from specific situations in the monastic community at that time. The Buddha and the elders saw that improper use of sandals, whether wearing them into sacred spaces, caring for them, or abusing them to display status, could become a matter of mind. Therefore, the Buddha gave specific guidance on how to use sandals in a way appropriate to the pure path of practice.
Main Content
The Pāduka Sutta stipulates that bhikkhus should not wear sandals into great Dharma assemblies, important teaching sessions, or sacred spaces such as Bodhi halls or places where Buddha images are enshrined. This is not because sandals are impure in themselves, but because doing so symbolizes a lack of respect for the Dharma and for the community of practice.
The discourse also instructs that sandals should not be regarded as objects for displaying status or wealth. The sole purpose of sandals is to protect the feet from harm by earth, stones, or insects. Therefore, sandals that are excessively colorful, decorated, or made from expensive materials are inappropriate to the wholesome way of life of a practitioner.
Furthermore, the discourse emphasizes that bhikkhus should care for sandals carefully, placing them in a clean place and not leaving them carelessly, because this reflects respect toward the articles that provide for one’s ease. This attitude is an expression of the teaching of non-ownership (anattā) and the dissolution of attachment.
Practical Meaning
Although the discourse speaks of sandals, its essence is deeply connected with spiritual practice. Every article in monastic life is an opportunity to train the mind.
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