Bi Sk 1616. Swaying the body

Dutiyakāyappacālaka (The Second Rule on Swaying the Body)

Background

This text belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga — the rules of training for bhikkhunīs (nuns). The background of this text concerns events within the community of bhikkhunīs during the time of the Buddha. Bhikkhunīs who did not observe discipline in their conduct during religious ceremonies and communal activities gave rise to matters of discipline.

The "Dutiyakāyappacālaka" (The Second Rule on Swaying the Body) was laid down by the Buddha to address a specific problem: bhikkhunīs swaying and rocking their bodies in an unseemly manner in settings of training and religious practice. Such behavior was regarded as a lack of respect toward the Dhamma and one's companions in the holy life, and reflected an immature state of mind in one's practice.

Main Content

This text records one of the rules of discipline that the Buddha laid down. It centers on the matter of bodily comportment — in particular, the swaying, rocking, or moving of the body in an unseemly manner within a religious context. Such behavior is regarded as a form of disrespect, lack of discipline, or even an improper display seeking attention.

According to the principles of training in Theravāda Buddhism, the body must be governed with mindful awareness. Every movement and every posture reflects the state of mind of the practitioner. When a bhikkhunī sways her body without proper reason, this indicates restlessness, lack of concentration, or even a deliberate seeking of attention. Such conduct is contrary to the fundamental principles of right understanding (prajñapti) and restraint (saṃvara).

The text makes clear that bhikkhunīs who violate this rule of conduct must undergo appropriate penalties or corrective measures. The manner of handling such cases is specified in detail within the Vinaya Piṭaka, in order to maintain integrity, discipline, and respect within the Saṅgha (the religious community).