Upp Sk 13Covering the Head (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaoguṇṭhita
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Exposition of the Dutiyaoguṇṭhita Discourse (The Second Covering of the Head)
Background
The Dutiyaoguṇṭhita discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the discipline for bhikkhunīs. This section regulates conduct related to management of the body and clothing of bhikkhunīs within the monastic community.
The background for the arising of this discourse is connected with practical issues in the management of robes and the maintenance of bodily appearance in accordance with the rules of practice. The Buddha, with profound understanding of human nature, established regulations not to restrict, but to create conditions for female disciples to focus on Dharma practice and avoid occasions for desire or conceit to arise.
The Dutiyaoguṇṭhita discourse is recorded as the second time the Buddha taught on the matter of covering the head. The repetition of these regulations reflects its importance in the Theravāda tradition, as well as the specific situations that bhikkhunīs needed to observe.
Main Content
This discourse focuses on the rule concerning how bhikkhunīs cover the head (oguṇṭhita) when taking part in community activities or meeting male bhikkhus and laypeople. Covering the head is not a random act, but has a clear purpose in the social context of ancient India.
The Buddha prescribed that when bhikkhunīs appear in public or participate in sessions of practice, they should cover the head by wrapping cloth around it, in a manner resembling a head covering. This expresses respect, mental discipline, and the avoidance of situations that could lead to unnecessary attention or impolite comments.
This rule, though simple in outward form, contains deep meanings concerning restraint of the sense faculties and maintenance of pure mindfulness. It also reflects the social norms of that time, in which women, especially those gone forth, needed to observe certain rules in order to be acknowledged and protected by society.
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