Xct Mu Bi Sk 89Covering the Head
Pāli / Sanskrit:Oguṇṭhita
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DISCOURSE ON UNCOVERING THE HEAD (OGUṆṬHITA)
Context
The Oguṇṭhita discourse is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Sutta Vibhaṅga, the detailed training rules for the Sangha. This discourse concerns one of the disciplinary rules (Pātimokkha) intended to maintain the proper standard and dignity of the monastic community.
The context in which this rule appears is connected with particular events in the past of early Buddhism. In the time of the Buddha and his disciples, the Sangha developed rapidly and accepted many people gone forth from different ethical backgrounds. Therefore, inappropriate or undignified behaviors sometimes occurred. The Vinaya Pitaka records occasions when the Buddha observed such matters and gave specific guidance for correction.
The Discourse on Uncovering the Head concerns the act of covering the head in inappropriate contexts or in violation of respect within the monastery.
Main Content
According to the Theravāda Vinaya Pitaka, this discourse refers to the rule concerning covering the head (oguṇṭhita, from “guṇṭhita,” meaning wrapped or covered). In the ethical context of the Sangha, actions such as covering the head in specific circumstances, such as while hearing the Dharma, in Sangha meetings, or when meeting elders, are regarded as disrespectful or contrary to etiquette.
This discourse emphasizes that a monastic should always maintain an attitude of respect and mindfulness in all situations. Covering the head in an inappropriate way may be understood as contempt, laziness, or lack of reverence. The Vinaya Pitaka presents in detail the specific circumstances in which this action is considered a violation, the Buddha’s admonitions, and the process by which the Sangha accepted this rule.
This rule was included in the Pātimokkha system, the list of disciplinary rules that every monastic must observe.
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