Bi Sk 2424. Covering the head
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dutiyaoguṇṭhita
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The Second Discourse on Covering the Head
Dutiyaoguṇṭhita — Bhikkhu Samutti, Rule 24
Background
This text is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, the code of discipline for the Theravāda Buddhist Sangha. This disciplinary section records the restrictions concerning dress and reverence when a bhikkhu acts in various situations. The content of the text concerns the rule regarding a bhikkhu's covering of the head — a matter that may appear minor but carries deep significance in terms of respect, self-composure, and ethical training within the monastic community.
The historical context of Rule 24 belongs to a period when Buddhism had been well established with a complete Sangha, and the rules of discipline were gradually taking shape based on specific situations. Each rule was established in order to protect the reputation of the Sangha, to regulate the conduct of bhikkhus, and to emphasize that the body, from head to foot, must be attended to with mindful awareness.
Main Content
The Dutiyaoguṇṭhita lays down instructions concerning how a bhikkhu is to cover the head in certain circumstances. In the Theravāda tradition, covering the head is not required in every situation, but it is a sign of reverence and respect.
Specifically, a bhikkhu should cover the head when standing before the Buddha (or an image of the Buddha), when listening to important teachings of the Dhamma, or when participating in solemn ceremonies. This act of covering the head signifies the restraint of the senses — in particular, of wandering thoughts — and reverence toward the True Dhamma.
The text also affirms that failing to cover the head in appropriate circumstances is regarded as disrespect (appatissā), a subtle yet significant infraction within monastic discipline. Conversely, at times when it is not necessary, a bhikkhu should likewise not cover the head, as doing so may create difficulty in daily activities or give rise to an artificial display.
The notable point is that Rule 24 is not merely an instruction concerning bodily action, but is also an expression of the state of mind.
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