Upp Sk 62Headdresses
Pāli / Sanskrit:Veṭhita
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The Veṭhita Sutta: On Head Coverings
Background
The Veṭhita Sutta (Headdresses) is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of Theravāda Buddhism, in the Uppalavanna Skandhaka, the regulations concerning the clothing and ornaments of renunciants. The Vinaya Piṭaka is the collection of disciplinary commands and instructions for organizing the community of monks and nuns, established by the Buddha or senior disciples in order to protect the spirit of renunciation and maintain discipline in the Sangha.
This sutta reflects the historical context in which renunciants tended to adorn or cover the head in colorful ways, contrary to the humble spirit of Buddhism. The regulations on clothing in the Vinaya Piṭaka are not without reason; they arise from the need to prevent attachment to external appearance, which distracts from the goal of liberation.
Main Content
The Veṭhita Sutta prescribes how head coverings (veṭhita) or head-wraps are to be used by monastics. According to the Vinaya Piṭaka, such items must not be elaborately decorated or made of precious materials such as silk or dyed fibers.
Specifically, this sutta lists fabrics or materials unsuitable for renunciants to use: head coverings made from fresh linen (patta), from cloth that is not natural cotton, or those decorated with striking colors. Permitted items are those made from pure cotton cloth, of moderate color, serving the practical purpose of blocking the sun or protecting the head.
The Vinaya Piṭaka also prescribes that carrying such coverings must be reasonable and must not be regarded as a means of displaying status or wealth. From time to time, the venerable ones are permitted to use them for protection against weather, but they are not permitted to regard them as part of daily dress for display.
Practical Meaning
The Veṭhita Sutta has profound significance regarding the Dharma of independence in Theravāda Buddhism.
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