Singing, dancing, and excessive laughter are all considered inappropriate expressions for the Noble Ones. The appropriate expression of joy for one who delights in the Dhamma is simply a gentle smile, reflecting dignified restraint.

AN 3.107  Ruṇṇa sutta - Wailing

“Ruṇṇamidaṁ, bhikkhave, ariyassa vinaye yadidaṁ gītaṁ. Ummattakamidaṁ, bhikkhave, ariyassa vinaye yadidaṁ naccaṁ. Komārakamidaṁ, bhikkhave, ariyassa vinaye yadidaṁ ativelaṁ dantavidaṁsakahasitaṁ. Tasmātiha, bhikkhave, setughāto gīte, setughāto nacce, alaṁ vo dhammappamoditānaṁ sataṁ sitaṁ sitamattāyā”ti.

“Bhikkhus, in the |Vinaya::code of monastic discipline rules, training [vinaya]| of the Noble Ones, singing is considered |wailing::crying [ruṇṇa]|; dancing is considered |madness::insanity [ummattaka]|; and excessive laughter that bares the teeth is regarded as |childishness::immaturity, juvenile behavior [komāraka]|. Therefore, bhikkhus, let there be a severing of the bridge to singing, a severing of the bridge to dancing. For those who |delight in::take joy in [pamodita]| the |Dhamma::teachings of the Buddha that point to the nature of reality, the ultimate truth [dhamma]|, a mere gentle smile is fitting.” [1]

[1] Per Mp, “When there is a reason to smile [in rejoicing in the Dhamma], it is proper to smile merely by showing the tips of your teeth simply to show that you are pleased.”

Qualities:

Immaturity

Immaturity

A childish lack of discernment that fails to see the results of actions clearly. It delights in surface pleasure and ignores consequence. Immaturity leads to poor choices and association with unwise companions.

Also known as: lacking in discernment, lacking in good sense, child-like in understanding, lack of wisdom, lack of experience, foolishness
Pāli: bāla
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Insanity

Insanity

A disturbed and unstable mental condition in which the mind is scattered, erratic, or deranged. It can range from temporary disorientation and agitation to severe forms of insanity, obstructing clarity and discernment.

Also known as: craziness, mental derangement, lunacy, loss of reason, madness
Pāli: ummattaka, cittakkhepa
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Lamentation

Lamentation

The verbal and bodily expression of grief—crying, wailing, and mourning—that arises from loss or separation from what is held dear. It gives voice to sorrow and can deepen the mind's entanglement with pain.

Also known as: crying, wailing, mourning
Pāli: parideva
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Last updated on December 13, 2025