Lzh Sarv Bu Pm Sk 32Covering the Head (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaoguṇṭhita
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Explanation of the Dutiyaoguṇṭhita Sutta (The Sutta on Covering the Head the Second Time)
Context
The Dutiyaoguṇṭhita Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Pāli Canon, specifically within the regulations concerning the dress and daily habits of bhikkhunīs. The context for the establishment of this sutta is connected with specific events in the monastic community during the Buddha’s lifetime.
The regulations on covering or wrapping the head are not merely a matter of aesthetics, but are deeply related to Sangha discipline, the spirit of humility, and maintaining dignity in the practice of the Buddha-Dharma. The second time (Dutiya) indicates that this regulation was repeated or given in another circumstance to clarify it, showing its urgency and importance.
Main Content
In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, rules concerning the head-covering of bhikkhunīs were established to ensure purity, avoid unnecessary attention from outside, and preserve the dignified image of female monastics. The Dutiyaoguṇṭhita Sutta stipulates that bhikkhunīs should not leave the face and head completely exposed when moving in public places, especially when meeting those who are not monastics.
This "covering of the head" (oguṇṭhita) is not self-concealment or fear, but an expression of a state of mind ready for cultivation, a mind that does not desire attention, does not adorn itself elaborately, and always preserves a dignity appropriate to the Dharma attire of one gone forth. This is one of the small but meaningful details of discipline, often trained daily in the life of study and practice.
This regulation also reflects the Buddhist view of relinquishing attention, bondage to outward appearance, and nurturing society’s trust in the Buddhist monastic community.
Practical Meaning
The Dutiyaoguṇṭhita Sutta has profound meaning regarding the cultivation of mindfulness (sati) and the spirit of non-self (anattā).
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