Bu Sk 6262. Wearing sandals
Pāli / Sanskrit:Upāhanāruḷha
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The Upāhanāruḷha Sutta — On Wearing Sandals
Background
This sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka within the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically the Suttavibhaṅga section concerning the rules of daily conduct for monks and nuns. Upāhanāruḷha is a Pāli term meaning "going with sandals" or "wearing sandals," reflecting a particular situation in monastic life during the time of the Buddha.
In the social context of ancient India, wearing sandals was a marker of social status. Those who went forth into homelessness renounced possessions, prestige, and the symbols of worldly life. However, the question of whether or not to wear sandals appears to have given rise to debate within the monastic community, and it was in response to this that the Buddha set forth clear guidance through the Vinaya.
Main Content
The Upāhanāruḷha Sutta records the regulations concerning the circumstances under which monks are or are not permitted to wear sandals. This rule is not an absolute prohibition, but rather a guideline suited to the principles of practice and the cultivation of a mind of renunciation.
According to the Vinaya Piṭaka, monks are permitted to wear sandals when necessary — for instance, to protect the feet from the dangers of hot ground, sharp objects, or the hardships of long journeys. However, wearing sandals when there is no such need, and in particular wearing sandals that are excessively costly or ornate, is regarded as incompatible with the spirit of the going-forth.
The benefit of this rule lies in maintaining impartiality and freedom from attachment to material things, however small. A true monk should not place excessive importance on minor matters concerning clothing or personal possessions. This rule also serves to prevent distinctions of wealth and poverty within the monastic community, where all members are to live in equality and simplicity.
Practical Significance
The Upāhanāruḷha Sutta conveys a profound lesson on balance in practice. It does not encourage extreme asceticism or self-mortification, but rather emphasizes what is appropriate — yoniso manasikāra, wise attention and proper consideration.
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