Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Sk 18Well-Covered (2nd)

Dutiyasuppaṭicchanna Text (Well-Covered - The Second Time)

Background

Dutiyasuppaṭicchanna is a rule in the Vinaya Piṭaka, belonging to the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the regulations concerning female monastics (bhikkhunīs). This text is recorded in the Theravada tradition with concrete details on ethical conduct in the religious community.

The word “suppaṭicchanna” means “well-covered” or “well-protected,” relating to actions that must be performed carefully, discreetly, and in accordance with the Dharma. This is the second time (dutiya) a similar matter is mentioned, showing repetition to emphasize its importance.

The historical background of these rules arose from concrete situations in the early community of monks and nuns, when the Buddha and his disciples had to establish clear guidance to maintain discipline, reputation, and the purity of the practicing community.

Main Content

This text belongs to the area of Pācittiya offenses, those requiring confession, or Saṅghādisesa offenses, those requiring suspension by the community: disputes or violations related to actions that must be carried out discreetly so as not to create misunderstanding or damage the community’s honor.

“Well-covered” here indicates standards for performing an action so that: first, it is carried out quietly without disturbance; second, it is concealed from those not suitable to witness it; third, it is performed with pure intention, without motives of greed or conceit.

These rules are especially related to the actions of female monastics when interacting with male monastics, accepting material goods, or participating in community rituals. The purpose is to avoid any occasion for others to misunderstand or question their purity and ethical intention.

Practical Meaning

The principle of being “well-covered” is not for doing secret or dishonest acts, but for performing rightful actions in a way that does not cause misunderstanding.