Lzh Dg Bi Pm Sk 1Evenly All Around
Pāli / Sanskrit:Parimaṇḍala
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Parimaṇḍala Sutta - On Harmonious Balance
Background
The Parimaṇḍala Sutta belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, the collection of rules and principles governing the community of monks and nuns in the Theravāda tradition. The title “Evenly All Around” (Parimaṇḍala) carries the meaning of complete balance, like a perfect circle without corners or injustice. This is a teaching of the Buddha related to how bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs should live in harmony, fairness, and unity.
The Vinaya Piṭaka was compiled after the Buddha entered nirvana, under the organization of the great disciples, in order to record the precepts and instructions that the Buddha had established for the Sangha to maintain the purity and harmony of the community of practice. In that context, this sutta addresses the essential principle of fairness and balance in a religious community.
Main Content
Parimaṇḍala emphasizes that a healthy community of practice must maintain even balance in every aspect, like a perfect circle. There is no unfair preference and no discrimination in treatment of members. All bhikkhus must be regarded as equal before the path of Dharma (Dhamma) and the path of Discipline (Vinaya), regardless of their accomplishments in practice or their long-standing position.
This sutta encourages principles of democratic and public management in the Sangha. When there are disputes or issues to be resolved, the whole community should take part in discussion, rather than decisions being made exclusively by a few people. Decisions must be made publicly and transparently, and accepted by the majority of members. This is the basis of Sangha meetings in early Buddhism.
Furthermore, Parimaṇḍala encourages mutual respect, directness, honest communication, and a spirit of cooperation. Each bhikkhu should consider the common benefit of the community more than personal benefit. When everyone lives according to this principle, the community will develop sustainably and harmoniously, creating favorable conditions for practicing the Dhamma.
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