San Sarv Bu Pm Finot Sk 36Arms Akimbo (2nd)
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyakhambhakata
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Explanation of the Dutiyakhambhakata Sutra (The Posture of Holding the Arms Across - The Second Time)
Background
The Dutiyakhambhakata Sutra is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pali Canon, reflecting rules concerning demeanor and manners (ābhaṭacārikā) in the early Buddhist Sangha. The Vinaya Pitaka is not merely a list of prohibitions, but also a detailed guide to the conduct, walking, standing, sitting, and lying down of bhikkhus, with the aim of building a highly disciplined community of practice that is worthy of respect in the eyes of society.
The title "Khambhakata" (arms held across) indicates a specific bodily posture, the hands at shoulder level, joined across the chest. The word "Dutiya" (second time) suggests that there are at least two records or two occasions on which the Buddha taught about this matter, perhaps because of different situations or to emphasize distinct aspects of this rule of conduct.
Main Content
This sutra belongs to the section regulating the manner of action in the Pāṭimokkha (the disciplinary rules) or the Vinaya-vastu (matters of discipline). The posture of holding the arms across was taught by the Buddha as a form expressing reverence and respect, especially when meeting teachers, eminent elders, or those worthy of respect.
According to the early Vinaya Pitaka, the Buddha did not only instruct bhikkhus about prohibited actions, but also about respectful postures. Holding the arms across (khambhakata) is an expression of humility and reverence. It differs from kneeling or bowing the head; this is an intermediate posture that can be used in many circumstances of interaction.
The sutra records specific situations in which this posture is encouraged, perhaps related to approaching senior bhikkhu teachers, receiving Dharma teaching, or participating in communal Dharma activities. The phrase "the second time" (Dutiya) may indicate a repeated instruction, making this regulation even clearer after earlier misunderstandings or incomplete observance.
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