Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Sk 41Not Enter Covering Right Shoulder Opening Left Shoulder
Pāli / Sanskrit:Not enter covering right shoulder opening left shoulder
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Explanation of the Sutta: Not Entering with the Right Shoulder Covered and the Left Shoulder Open
Background
This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, the body of discipline governing the practice life of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. The Vinaya Piṭaka is not only a set of strict rules, but also an expression of morality (sīla) and dignity (ādīnava) in the noble Dharma.
This body of discipline was established by the Buddha Gotama to protect the purity of the Sangha, maintain the order of practice, and build a positive image of the Sangha before the community. Regulations concerning robes (cīvara) and the way of wearing robes (aṅgattharaṇa) are not minor details, but reflect an attitude of reverence, humility, and mindfulness in each daily action of the practitioner.
Main Content
The sutta states that when entering sacred spaces, such as a shrine, vihāra, or solemn place, a bhikkhu must not expose the right shoulder by covering only the left shoulder or by leaving the right shoulder entirely open. Instead, the robe should be worn so that both shoulders are fully covered, or, if local tradition permits, both shoulders should be uncovered in a balanced and dignified manner.
This regulation is related to the concepts of “ādhañña” (improper) and “alaṅkāra” (not legitimately adorned). Wearing the robe improperly diminishes reverence and can easily create unwanted impressions among the public. In Buddhist tradition, the right shoulder is often regarded as a part of the body that should be especially covered, except in particular permitted circumstances.
The Pāli Canon’s Vinaya clearly states the penalties for violating this regulation, from admonitions (pabbajjanīya) to stricter disciplinary measures if the abuse is repeated. This shows that the Buddha and the elders of the Sangha valued outward dignity as a foundation for inner dignity.
Practical Meaning
To understand this sutta more deeply, the practitioner should recognize that its purpose is not harshness, but attentiveness.
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