San Lo Bu Pm Sk 22Arms Akimbo (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyakhambhakata
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Dutiyakhambhakata Discourse (Hands on the Hips)
Background
The Dutiyakhambhakata discourse is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, a collection related to rules of conduct for monks and nuns. This context reflects specific situations in the life of the Order when the Buddha was still alive, where monastics needed guidance concerning behaviors not in accord with the nature of pure practice.
The title “Hands on the Hips” (Dutiyakhambhakata) indicates a specific bodily action, raising both hands and placing them on the hips, a gesture considered impolite, arrogant, or disrespectful in a religious context. This discourse is not a profound doctrinal sermon, but an administrative account about maintaining discipline and manners within the Order.
Main Content
According to the Pāli Canon tradition, this discourse records a specific event concerning the improper conduct of a monastic. The action of “arms akimbo” mentioned here is related to adjustments in manners, to the way a monastic should present the body within the community of practice.
In the Vinaya Piṭaka, such details are not meaningless. They reflect the deep awareness of the Buddha and the Order concerning the importance of small gestures, postures, and actions. Every bodily activity, the way one speaks, stands, and moves, is regarded as an expression of the inner state and the degree of reverence toward the Buddha-Dharma.
Although the title of this discourse is simple, it emphasizes that there is no “small detail” in pure practice. Every action has ethical meaning; every gesture reflects or influences the spirit of practice. The act of standing with hands on the hips, regarded as showing pride or self-assertion, is contrary to the humble and respectful disposition required in Buddhism.
Practical Meaning
The teaching of the Dutiyakhambhakata discourse does not stop at prohibiting a specific gesture. It opens a broader understanding: practice is a comprehensive process involving body, speech, and mind.
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