San Lo Bu Pm Sk 15Lowered Eyes (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu
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Discourse on Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu (Lowered Eyes — Second Time)
Background
The Dutiyaokkhittacakkhu discourse is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the section regulating actions and attitudes in the training life of bhikkhus. This scripture belongs to the Theravāda tradition and is recorded in the Pāli Canon, which has been preserved with absolute care through more than two thousand years of Buddhist history.
The background of the discourse concerns everyday rules of conduct for bhikkhus when walking, standing, or sitting. The phrase “Lowered Eyes” indicates one of the typical actions encouraged in the Vinaya, an outward expression of mindfulness and concentration. The repetition (Dutiya = second time) shows that this is an important point, repeated by the Buddha to emphasize its practical value.
In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, these actions are not rigid rules, but also intimate advice that helps monastics train their minds effectively. They are outward expressions of inner practice.
Main Content
“Lowered Eyes” in the context of the Vinaya is an important instruction. When a bhikkhu moves, directing the gaze two cubits ahead, or three steps, that is, looking downward rather than letting the eyes wander about, is an act related to sense restraint (indriyasamvara). This is an inseparable part of the Five Precepts (Pañcasīla) and deeper vows within the discipline.
Looking with lowered eyes does not mean weakness or inferiority. Rather, it is wisdom in managing the sense organs. In the Buddha-Dharma, the five sense organs, eye, ear, nose, tongue, and body, are the “gates” through which external factors enter consciousness. By limiting the field of vision, a monastic reduces unnecessary stimulation and maintains the mind focused on inner practice.
Although this discourse is brief, it carries profound meaning.
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