San Mg Bu Pm Sk 22Arms Akimbo (2nd)

Interpretation of the Dutiyakhambhakata Sutta (Arms Akimbo, for the Second Time)

Background

The Dutiyakhambhakata Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, where rules, rites, and instructions for practice for the community of monks and nuns are recorded. In the context of regulations on the conduct of the Sangha, this sutta concerns specific details of bodily posture, gestures, and bearing in the daily life of renunciants.

The title “Arms Akimbo” (khambhakata in Pāli) indicates a posture expressing respect and discipline, a way of placing the two hands across the chest or holding them at the sides. This is not merely an ordinary movement, but an expression of inward attitude: concentration, respect, and self-control. The prefix “Dutiya” means “second,” suggesting that this sutta is a repeated version of, or a supplement to, content already mentioned in a preceding sutta.

The rules in the Vinaya Piṭaka are not unreasonable restrictions, but means to help monastics train their minds, preserve reverence, and maintain unity in the community of practice.

Main Content

The Dutiyakhambhakata Sutta regulates how monks and nuns should maintain their posture when standing, walking, or waiting in different situations, especially when showing respect to the Buddha, elder monks, or when participating in formal ceremonies. This “arms akimbo” posture is regarded as a way of expressing courtesy, discipline, and sincerity of mind.

Such detailed rules reflect the philosophy of Theravāda Buddhism: body and mind cannot be separated. When we discipline the body, by holding a certain posture, restraining gestures, and avoiding frivolous actions, the mind is gradually trained to become concentrated, calm, and pure. Conversely, a restless mind often appears through agitated and uncontrolled gestures.

These rules are also set within the context of the Sangha, the monastic community living together according to an organized way of life.