Disclaimer: This translation does not guarantee complete accuracy, please confirm with the original page text.
## Translation:
[226] A monk or nun should not stay in a dwelling whose height is lower than the ear of a monk during the Hemant (winter) and Grishma (summer) seasons. Another Sutra states that if the height of such a dwelling is higher than the ear of a monk, then monks and nuns can stay there during the Hemant and Grishma seasons.
A third Sutra states that if the height of such a pure dwelling is lower than the Ratnimukuta (a crown made of jewels), then it is not appropriate for monks and nuns to spend the rainy season there. A fourth Sutra states that if the height of the roof is higher than the Ratnimukuta, then monks and nuns can stay there during the rainy season.
The Ratnimukuta is the size of a hand. When both hands are raised and the two palms are joined together, it forms a crown-like shape, hence it is called the Ratnimukuta.
If a monk stands in a house with a thatched roof that is lower than the height of his ear, then particles of grass, mud, etc. will fall down repeatedly due to the touch of the grass. Therefore, one should stay there for one or two nights during the Hemant and Grishma seasons and then move on. During the Chaturmas (four months of the rainy season), it is necessary to stay for a long time. During such a long period, there may be many occasions to raise one's hands. Therefore, one can stay in a house with a thatched roof that is high enough so that the hands do not touch the grass when raised.
The reason for prohibiting staying in a dwelling with a low roof is also explained in the Bhashya (commentary). It states that monks and nuns will have to bend down while entering and leaving such a low dwelling. They will also not be able to stand upright inside, which will hinder them in performing Vandana (worship) and other rituals. If they stand upright, there is a possibility of their head hitting the roof or being stung by scorpions or other creatures living above.
The word 'Alp' (less) in the Sutra-read "Appadesu Apppaanesu" etc. means 'absence'. Staying in a dwelling with grass, seeds, or soil, etc. leads to the Chaturlaghook and Anantakaayapanak Praadi, etc. Staying in a dwelling with Chaturghuru leads to the Chaturghuru Praayashchitta (penance). Similarly, staying in a dwelling lower than the prescribed height also leads to the Chaturlaghoo Praayashchitta.
The Bhashyakar (commentator) has also stated that if a snake is seen residing in the grass covering of such a dwelling during the rainy season, then it should be subdued by chanting mantras. If this is not possible, then a canopy should be built under the grass covering. If this is also not possible, then a bamboo mat should be placed above. This will prevent the snake from hanging down and biting from above. If it is not possible to place a mat, then the monks staying there should use a Chilmilika (a kind of mosquito net).
All the above statements apply to dwellings or residences that are made of or covered with grass, straw, etc., or have grass, etc. placed on the top. However, there is no prohibition on staying in a house made of stone, etc. However, it is advisable to stay in a house with a suitable height, as it is conducive to restraint and good health.