dhuta

Dhuta refers to a set of ascetic practices observed by some Buddhist monks and nuns. The term originates from the Sanskrit word "dhuta," meaning "to shake off" or "to cleanse," signifying the shedding of worldly attachments and desires. These practices are not mandatory but are undertaken by those seeking to deepen their spiritual discipline and cultivate detachment.

There are typically thirteen dhuta practices described in Buddhist scriptures. These include living in a forest, begging for alms, wearing patched robes, eating only one meal a day, eating sparingly, not accepting any food offered after the meal, living in a cave, meditating in a sitting posture continuously, and being content with any dwelling. Other practices involve not speaking during meals, not attending communal gatherings, and not sleeping in too comfortable a place.

The purpose of dhuta practices is to reduce greed, aversion, and delusion by living a simple, austere life. By voluntarily embracing hardship and simplicity, practitioners aim to weaken their reliance on material possessions and sensory pleasures, thereby fostering contentment and mental clarity. These practices are seen as a powerful tool for developing mindfulness, equanimity, and insight into the nature of suffering and impermanence. While not universally practiced, dhuta remains an important aspect of certain monastic traditions within Buddhism, particularly in Theravada Buddhism.