Covering the head (PLI-TV-BU-VB-SK24)

Theravāda Collection on Monastic Law

The Great Analysis

The chapter on training

The subchapter on hands on hips

Covering the head

Origin story

At one time the Buddha was staying at Sāvatthī in the Jeta Grove, Anāthapiṇḍika’s Monastery.

At that time the monks from the group of six were covering their heads with their robes while sitting in inhabited areas. …

Final ruling

“‘I will not cover my head while sitting in inhabited areas,’ this is how you should train.”

One should not cover one’s head while sitting in an inhabited area.

If a monk, out of disrespect, covers his head with his upper robe while sitting in an inhabited area, he commits an offense of wrong conduct.

Non-offenses

There is no offense:

if it is unintentional;

if he is not mindful;

if he does not know;

if he is sick;

if he has entered his dwelling;

if there is an emergency;

if he is insane;

if he is the first offender.

The fourth training rule is finished.