Mpt Sk 16Covering the Head
Pāli / Sanskrit:Oguṇṭhita
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THE DISCOURSE ON COVERING THE HEAD (OGUṆṬHITA)
Background
The Oguṇṭhita Discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Pitaka of Theravāda Buddhism, belonging to the Mahāvagga section and forming part of the rules of training found in the Suttavibhaṅga. This is one of the training rules (sikkhāpada) issued by the Blessed Buddha to instruct bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs concerning conduct unsuitable in the Sangha community.
The background from which this discourse arose concerns monks who did not observe basic rules of life regarding the bearing and character of one gone forth. Covering the head (oguṇṭhita) when unnecessary was regarded as conduct resembling that of laypeople, or as showing an undignified attitude toward the Dharma.
Main Content
The rule on covering the head states that bhikkhus should not cover the head inappropriately when participating in activities of practice or when in situations that require respect and reverence. This includes attending Dharma assemblies, teaching the Dharma, or meeting spiritual teachers.
This discourse establishes the principle that members of the Sangha must maintain outward expressions suitable to the image of one gone forth. Covering the head without reason is considered contrary conduct (patiloma), not in harmony with the purity and dignity represented by the Sangha.
The discourse also mentions lawful exceptions, such as covering the head for protection from severe weather or illness, but not for pleasure or deception. Such conditions are regarded as reasonable and do not violate the principle.
Practical Meaning
The deeper meaning of the Oguṇṭhita Discourse is not only about the physical act of covering the head, but about inward attitude and the way one presents oneself. This is a lesson in integrity (sacca) and non-deception (musāvāda) in the practice of the Buddha-Dharma.
This rule teaches us that those gone forth must live transparently and should not hide or pretend things inconsistent with their true nature.
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