Xct Mu Bu Vb Sk 91Na mauliśirase

Exposition of the Na Mauliśirase Scripture

Context

The Na Mauliśirase scripture belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Pāli Canon, specifically within the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the rules and instructions for female renunciants. This scripture is recorded in the context of the Buddha’s teaching in the western regions and remote lands, where bhikkhunīs faced practical challenges in an austere way of life.

The Pāli word "mauliśirase" is related to the concept of the "head" (maulis, sirasa) in a figurative sense, that is, important points or core matters. This scripture was transmitted in order to illustrate the importance of observing rules concerning the body, clothing, and conduct in religious practice.

Main Content

The Na Mauliśirase scripture deals with situations related to how female renunciants should conduct themselves with regard to parts of the body and their clothing. In particular, this scripture emphasizes that bhikkhunīs should not adorn or decorate the upper parts of the body, such as the hair and face, in order to avoid what is suggestive or creates an impression belonging to the accumulation of sensual desire (kāma).

The Buddha instructs that bodily restraint (kāyasaṃvara) is an essential part of moral discipline (Sīla). Female renunciants must understand that bodily purity is not the final goal, but is the foundation upon which the mind can become calm and focused on meditation (samādhi) and insight (paññā).

The scripture also implies that seemingly small actions, such as combing the hair or applying adornment, if performed with a notion of vanity or a search for attention from others, will create obstacles in the process of practice. This reflects the profound philosophy of Theravāda Buddhism: every small action has the capacity to affect the spirit and the mind.

Practical Meaning

For female monastics today, the Na Mauliśirase scripture offers very practical lessons.