San Lo Bi Vb Sk 15Lowered Eyes (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu
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Explanation of the Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu Sutta (Lowered Eyes - Second Time)
Background
The Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu Sutta is one of the regulations concerning verbal conduct (vācā-kamma) and the gaze of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs in the traditional Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka. The term "okkhittacakkhu" literally means "eyes lowered" or "lowered line of sight," symbolizing care, humility, and diligence in governing the sense faculties.
In the context of the Pātimokkha, the basic rules of training, these regulations arose from specific situations the Buddha witnessed in the Sangha community. When some bhikkhus did not properly govern the object of the eye (cakkhu-indriya), leading to mental wandering in inappropriate situations, the Buddha gave specific instructions. The second occurrence (dutiya) of this rule usually specifies additional variations or extensions of the original rule, to ensure consistency and integrity in practice.
Main Content
The rule on "Lowered Eyes" focuses on controlling the indriya, the sense faculties, especially sight. In the spirit of the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka, when bhikkhus move about, especially in inhabited areas or when women are present, they should lower their gaze to a nearby distance, about the length of a span or a backpack, rather than looking directly ahead or freely around.
This action is not meant to conceal coarseness or fear, but is an expression of sati (mindfulness) and sampajañña (clear comprehension). By controlling the eyes, bhikkhus keep the mind from being scattered by images that may arouse sensual desire or ignorance. This is part of "indriya-samvara" (guarding the sense faculties), an essential factor on the path of practice leading to nirvana.
The "second" rule (dutiya) may apply to more specific situations or cases that the first rule did not fully cover. It may relate to repeated actions, or to more complex situations in the communal life of monastics.
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