Xct Mu Bu Vb Sk 93Headdresses
Pāli / Sanskrit:Veṭhita
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Veṭhita Scripture: On Head Wraps
Context
The Veṭhita scripture (head wraps) belongs to the Vinaya Pitaka, the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Theravāda Pāli Canon, located in the Mukhavāra section (related matters). This scripture is recorded in the context of the Buddha living at Sāvatthi or other localities, when bhikkhunīs, female monastics, began to use head ornaments inappropriate to the spirit of renunciation.
At that time, the foundation of practice for the community of monks and nuns was being formed. The Buddha not only taught the Dharma of liberation, but also established detailed disciplinary rules to protect the image, morality, and pure spirit of the Sangha of monks and nuns. The Veṭhita scripture is one of the specific adjustments intended to preserve simplicity and cleanliness in the conduct of dress among female monastics.
Main Content
The scripture teaches that bhikkhunīs should not wear head wraps or head ornaments (veṭhita) like worldly women, such as hats, scarves, or ornaments woven with precious threads or gold and silver. These things are not only symbols of craving for bodily adornment, but also run contrary to the spirit of "fewness of wishes and contentment" (appicchā, santuṭṭhī) that female monastics must practice.
The Buddha clearly points out that clothing, especially things connected with physical beauty, can easily lead to states of greed, hatred, and delusion. Wearing refined head wraps or elaborate head ornaments nourishes dissatisfaction, the desire to be admired, and distraction from contemplation of the Dharma.
The specific provisions state that bhikkhunīs may wear only simple, coarse wraps, primarily for the purpose of protecting the body and not for adornment. If they violate this, depending on the degree, they may be dealt with accordingly under Mone Vatthu (matters concerning clothing) or related rules.
Practical Meaning
The Veṭhita scripture does not speak only about wearing simple clothing.
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