Xct Mu Bu Vb Sk 17No grimacing

THE SUTTA ON NOT GRIMACING - EXPLANATION

Background

The sutta “Not Grimacing” belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the rules of practice for bhikkhunīs. It is one of the basic controls of conduct intended to nourish inner discipline and respect within the community of monks and nuns.

According to the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka records specific situations that occurred during the Buddha’s lifetime and led to the issuing of rules, Pātimokkha. Each rule is not punishment, but a tool of practice, helping monastics restrain unconscious actions and develop depth in meditation.

Main Content

The rule “Not Grimacing” forbids bhikkhunīs to mock with facial expressions, wrinkle the nose, or make gestures of the face that cause others to feel offended or despised. Although the content of the sutta has not been fully translated, in the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka this usually relates to a specific situation in which a bhikkhunī grimaced or mocked someone, harming communal harmony and the conditions for practice.

This rule belongs to the “Pācittiya” class, minor offenses requiring public confession before the community. The prohibition applies not only to grimacing at outsiders, but is especially strict when directed toward fellow practitioners or teachers. Grimacing often includes wrinkling the nose, twisting the mouth, or other facial expressions showing contempt.

Practical Meaning

The deeper meaning of this rule lies in the training of the mind. When we grimace, we not only wound others but also defile our own minds with unwholesome thoughts, akusala citta. In meditation, the mind must be clear and pure, not dimmed by laziness or contempt.

This rule also expresses the principle of mettā, loving-kindness, and restraint in discipline.