Bu Sk 1212. Laughing loudly

The Discourse on Laughing Loudly (Dutiyaujjagghika)

Background

This text is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhu Samantapāsādikā—the section of the Vinaya that governs the ethical conduct of the monastic community. It is one of the training rules (sikkhāpada) pertaining to the behavior, speech, and deportment of bhikkhus participating in communal assemblies of the Dharma.

The historical context of this text originates from a specific incident within the early monastic community. During the time when the Blessed One still lived in the world, there were certain bhikkhus who did not observe the proper principles of speech and conduct—in particular, the act of laughing loudly (ujjagghika) during Dharma assemblies or in sacred places. Such behavior was regarded as disrespectful toward the Triple Gem, as a source of distraction to others engaged in meditation practice, and as a reflection of an undisciplined mind.

The Blessed One, having witnessed instances of bhikkhus laughing loudly and thereby disturbing the community, thereupon established the training rule. The Dutiyaujjagghika—"the second [rule] concerning laughing loudly"—records either a re-establishment of or a further elucidation of this principle.

Main Content

In the Vinaya Piṭaka, laughing loudly (ujjagghika, ussagghika) is considered an improper form of conduct—one incompatible with the outward bearing and inner composure befitting a bhikkhu who has gone forth into homelessness. This is not an outright prohibition of laughter, but rather a caution regarding the manner in which one laughs and the context in which laughter occurs.

The text makes clear that laughing loudly—especially uncontrolled, boisterous laughter—is a sign of a mind that has not attained calm and has not yet cultivated inner discipline (indriya-saṃvara). One who trains in the Buddha-Dharma must manifest steadiness, mindfulness (sati), and collectedness of mind (samādhi) in all daily activities, including moments of ease and relaxation.

The Blessed One taught that bhikkhus should observe a mode of laughter befitting their station: one may be joyful in heart, yet composed in action, refraining from producing loud sounds that disturb those around them who are engaged in practice. This is an expression of the bodhisattva spirit—honoring and cherishing the spiritual journey of others.