San Sarv Bu Pm Tf 11 Sk 31Covering the Head
Pāli / Sanskrit:Oguṇṭhita
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The Oguṇṭhita Sutta (Covering the Head)
Background
The Oguṇṭhita Sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, in the section regulating Sangha discipline. It is one of the detailed Vinaya texts concerning inappropriate conduct for bhikkhus and bhikkhunis. The root term "Oguṇṭhita" means "covered" or "veiled," especially referring to covering the head or face, an act regarded as disrespectful in the context of Buddhist study, practice, and ritual life.
In the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka records the specific events that led the Buddha to formulate rules. These regulations are not arbitrary precepts, but arise from real situations, aiming to maintain discipline in the Sangha, protect the honor of Buddhism, and nourish the noble character of those gone forth.
Main Content
The Oguṇṭhita Sutta prescribes that bhikkhus should not cover the head and face in certain circumstances, especially in Sangha meetings, when listening to the Dharma, or in the presence of persons worthy of respect. The act of covering the head is seen as a form of disrespect, because it appears as though the person is trying to hide himself or is unwilling to openly receive the Dharma and instructions.
Specifically, when bhikkhus are present in formal contexts, they must leave the head and face uncovered, expressing sincerity, transparency, and readiness to receive the Dharma. Covering is regarded as a violation of the rules of conduct (Vinaya), and depending on the degree, may lead to penalties or correction of conduct within the Sangha.
This reflects a deep principle of Theravāda Buddhism: clarity (avassāva) and transparency (pākatatta) are basic virtues in practice and the renunciant life. Those who hide themselves, whether materially or psychologically, are not in accord with the path to liberation taught by the Buddha.
Practical Meaning
The nature of this rule goes far beyond the formal aspect.
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