Xct Mu Bi Pm Sk 85Lying Down

The Discourse on Lying Down (Sāyana)

Background

The Discourse on Lying Down (Sāyana) is part of the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, belonging to the detailed regulations concerning the daily way of life of bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs. These are not theoretical sermons, but practical rules issued by the Buddha in order to preserve the purity of the Sangha and build collective discipline.

In its historical context, these regulations developed gradually as the linguistic groupings and lifestyle of the Sangha required clear guidance. The Discourse on Lying Down concerns the way renunciants should sleep in a dignified manner, in keeping with the life of those pursuing awakening. This is an expression of the principle of Sīla (virtue), one of the most basic foundations of Theravāda Buddhism.

Main Content

The Discourse on Lying Down prescribes that bhikkhus should sleep in the posture called the "lion's lying posture" (sīhaseyya), that is, lying on the side, the right hand placed under the cheek, the right foot placed upon the left foot, with the mind still alert like a lion that has just lain down. This posture expresses vigilance, not allowing the mind to sink into forgetfulness or delight in sleep.

The rule also emphasizes that renunciants should not allow their minds to fall into fantasies, attachments, or ambitions while lying down to sleep. Upon waking, they should promptly arouse the spirit of practice, not becoming sluggish or delaying. Sleep is regarded as a necessary bodily need, but it must be governed by "mindfulness" (sati), that is, clear awareness of its purpose.

These regulations also relate to the management of a practitioner's time and energy. The Buddha encouraged the Sangha to devote more time to practice than to long sleep. Thus the night was divided into three periods: the initial period of practice, sleep, and renewed practice in the early morning.