Bi Pc 2121. Bathing naked

The Nagga Sutta (Bathing Naked)

Interpreted According to the Theravāda Pāli Canon Tradition

Background

The Nagga rule belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically the Bhikkhunī Pātimokkha — the code of conduct established exclusively for female monastics (bhikkhunīs). Within the community founded by the Blessed One Gotama, the establishment of monastic rules did not arise from arbitrariness or harsh discipline, but from specific incidents. The Nagga rule was recorded after an incident in which a bhikkhunī bathed wearing only an upper garment, exposing her entire lower body in a public bathing place. This action drew criticism from lay people and brought disrepute upon the Dharma. The Blessed One, upon learning of this matter, took the occasion to establish a clear rule to protect the honor of the monastic community and the Dharma.

In the Theravāda tradition, the Vinaya Piṭaka is not merely a collection of rules to be obeyed, but practical guidance arising from specific circumstances, reflecting the wisdom of the Blessed One in guiding the community of disciples.

Main Content

This rule stipulates that a bhikkhunī must not bathe in a state of complete nakedness in a public place where others may see her. The act of bathing naked — that is, exposing the entire body while bathing — is considered an offense (pāṭidesanīya), meaning a transgression which the bhikkhunī must herself confess and make expiation for before the monastic community.

This rule is not intended to create hardship for bhikkhunīs, but rather to protect the reputation of the monastic community in the eyes of the surrounding society. A bhikkhunī has gone forth from the household life to cultivate the Dharma, to seek liberation from craving and ignorance. The act of bathing naked in public may give rise to misunderstanding, causing lay people to think that monastics lack respect for the body or have no sense of proper decorum. This indirectly undermines the faith of people in the Dharma.