Bu Sk 2222. Hands on hips

Commentary on the Dutiyakhambhakata Sutta (Bu Sk 22)

Background

The Dutiyakhambhakata Sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Saṃgīti (the Discipline for Bhikkhunīs). This text was recorded in the context of the Buddha guiding the community of female monastics in proper conduct, in keeping with the spirit of the Dharma and the ethics of the monastic life.

The Pāli word "Khambhakata" means "hands placed at the waist" or "both hands on the hips." This is a bodily gesture mentioned in the context of actions that are unsuitable to the dignity and composure of female monastics. The Vinaya Piṭaka regulates not only major matters concerning moral virtue, but also gives guidance on everyday attitudes and gestures, so as to preserve the outward bearing and meditative composure of the Saṅgha.

Main Content

This sutta sets forth rules of appropriate conduct for bhikkhunīs when interacting with male monastics or in social situations. The act of "placing the hands on the hips" is regarded as a somewhat provocative attitude — lacking in seriousness or decorum — and thus capable of giving rise to misunderstanding or of reflecting poorly upon the honour of the monastic community.

In the Theravāda tradition, the rules for bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs are built upon the principles of maintaining moral virtue (Sīla), cultivating the mind (Bhāvanā), and developing wisdom (Paññā). Each detailed rule, however seemingly minor in appearance, is directed toward the common purpose of eliminating those factors that give rise to defilements, and of protecting the diligence and concentration of those who have gone forth.

The sutta instructs that bhikkhunīs should maintain an attitude of dignified composure — graceful yet properly restrained — in every gesture and action. This is not a restriction of freedom, but rather a liberation from unwholesome motivations (Akusala) that may disturb meditative stillness.