San Lo Bi Pn 6Dressing Laywomen
Pāli / Sanskrit:gṛhiṇī-alaṁkāra-pratisaṁyuktaṁ
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Commentary on the San Lo Bi Pn 6 Scripture: On the Adornment of Laywomen
Background
This scripture is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the canonical collection governing the rules of discipline for the monastic community of Theravāda Buddhism. Specifically, it belongs to the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha (the Bodhisattva Precepts of the nuns), under the section San Lo Bi Pn (Saṅghādisesa — offenses requiring formal assembly of the community).
In the context of ancient India, distinctions in clothing and adornment among the various social classes were clearly defined. Laywomen, particularly those who practiced the Buddhist Dharma, required clear guidance on how to dress in a manner befitting ethical conduct and the spirit of practice. This scripture was therefore established by the Buddha and the Venerable Elder Śāriputra in order to protect the good reputation of laywomen and to maintain respect within the Buddhist community.
Main Content
This scripture sets out regulations concerning the adornment (alaṁkāra) of laywomen (gṛhiṇī), with the aim of clearly distinguishing their manner from that of worldly women or those who do not engage in practice. Specifically, laywomen should not adorn themselves in an overly elaborate or ornate fashion, such as the styles adopted by women of the world for the purpose of attracting attention or satisfying pride.
Within the context of the Pāli Canon, "adornment" refers not only to external articles such as flowers, bracelets, or other decorations, but also encompasses manner of dress, clothing, and outward presentation. The scripture teaches that laywomen should choose attire that is simple and clean, covering the body in accordance with the principle of avoiding greed (lobha) and not indulging personal vanity through outward appearance.
This does not mean that laywomen must neglect their physical well-being or appear disheveled. Rather, it is a balance between bodily hygiene — cleanliness, without unnecessary adornment — and the relinquishment of the desire for seductive elegance or pride.
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