Bi Sk 22. Not wearing the upper robe evenly all around
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaparimaṇḍala
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Not Wearing the Upper Robe Evenly All Around
Context
This text belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically the section on Regulations Concerning Robes in the Bhikkhupātimokkha. This rule was proclaimed by the Blessed One for the purpose of maintaining virtue and discipline within the Buddhist Sangha.
During the time when the Blessed One was still in the world, monks were modest in their manner of dress as an expression of renunciation and non-attachment. The upper robe (uttarāsaṅga, or saṅghāṭi) is one of the three principal robes that a bhikkhu is required to keep with him. The regulation concerning the wearing of this robe carries deep significance, relating not only to deportment but also to the spirit of practice.
The rule "Dutiyaparimaṇḍala" — not wearing the upper robe evenly all around — was established when certain bhikkhus failed to observe the proper manner of wearing the robe. Such conduct was regarded as a lack of humility and as incompatible with the way of life of one who has gone forth.
Principal Content
According to the Theravāda Vinaya, a bhikkhu must wear the upper robe evenly all around his body. This means that the robe must be properly drawn and arranged, without overlapping layers or asymmetry. When this regulation is not observed — for example, wearing the robe too carelessly, allowing one side to be higher than the other, or leaving it hanging unevenly — the bhikkhu in question commits an offense against this rule.
The transgression is regarded as a Dukkaṭa (an act of wrong-doing) or as conduct that gives rise to difficulty within the community of the faithful. The purpose is not to censure but to educate the bhikkhu regarding the importance of discipline and of mindful attention in every action.
The upper robe is worn on formal occasions — when entering the hall for recitation of the scriptures, when meeting with senior monastics, or when attending important Dhamma discourses. Wearing the robe in accordance with the regulation demonstrates respect for the Buddha-Dhamma and reverence toward those in one's presence.
Practical Significance
Although this rule concerns an outward matter of form, it contains profound teachings regarding the mind.
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