San Lo Bi Vb Sk 22Arms Akimbo (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyakhambhakata
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Dutiyakhambhakata Sutta (The Forbidden Postures the Second Time)
Background
The Dutiyakhambhakata Sutta is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Sankhara Vibhanga, a section devoted to rules of virtuous training for monks and nuns. The context of the sutta arises from events in the Buddha’s life, when he had to establish disciplinary rules to regulate the conduct of his practicing disciples, in order to maintain discipline in the Sangha and protect the honor of the teaching.
Dutiyakhambhakata, the "second" section concerning the posture of "both hands on the hips," is part of a series of Vinaya texts related to postures and gestures considered inappropriate and lacking in solemnity before the faithful and the public. These regulations are not merely matters of formal discipline, but also reflect a basic principle of Buddhism: monastics must always display an attitude of respect, calm, and sufficient self-mastery in controlling the body.
Main Content
In this sutta, the Buddha forbids monks and nuns to assume the posture of standing with hands on the hips (khambhakata), especially "coarse" or overly familiar gestures when interacting with others. The posture of both hands on the hips, the arms bent at right angles at the elbows and the hands pressed against the hips, is seen as a gesture expressing arrogance, irritability, or lack of respect.
The reason for this prohibition arose from specific situations in the Sangha, when some monks and nuns assumed such postures while speaking with others, creating an impression lacking proper decorum, even seeming to be in a state of anger or intimidation. The Buddha recognized that the image of the Sangha was very important, because the public would judge the Buddha-Dharma through the conduct of those practicing the monastic life.
The sutta clearly states that if a monk or nun assumes this posture, it is a violation of the rule, whether a Pārājika or a lighter offense depending on the circumstances. Other suttas in the Sankhara Vibhanga also record similar prohibitions, such as not speaking too loudly, not sitting improperly, and not cackling in public.
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