9 / 13 · Dwelling
Living at the foot of a tree
Dwelling beneath a tree rather than under a roof.
- Author
- Dhutanga.org Editorial Team
- Review
- Doctrinal review pending
- Tradition
- Theravada, with comparative notes
- Published
- Last reviewed
- Pali name
- Rukkhamūlikaṅga
- Group
- Dwelling
Meaning
Rukkhamūla means “root of a tree” — the second of the traditional four supports of monastic life.
How it is practised
The practitioner lives beneath a suitable tree, avoiding trees at boundaries, shrines or places that are disputed or dangerous.
Grades of strictness
The grades differ in whether the site may be cleared or arranged — by oneself or by others — before it is used.
Benefits described in the tradition
- Living with the simplest shelter
- Constant reminders of impermanence as leaves change
- Freedom from attachment to buildings
When the observance lapses
The observance lapses when the practitioner goes to live under a roof.
Context today
The Buddha’s awakening is traditionally located at the foot of a tree, the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya. Today, practitioners often combine this ideal with simple forest shelters (kuṭi) for safety.