Lzh Mg Bu Pm Np 27Bribing Weavers

Mahāpesakāra Sutta (The Discourse on Bribing Craftsmen)

Background

The Mahāpesakāra Sutta is a rule within the Pāṭimokkha of the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, belonging to the Sāmaṇera Vibhaṅga (the section on rules for those who have gone forth for a single lifetime). This text was recorded in the ancient Vinaya literature in order to regulate conduct unbecoming to monastics in their dealings with laypeople, particularly in matters involving the giving and receiving of material goods or bribery.

Historical records indicate that this text arose when disciples of the Buddha came into frequent contact with craftsmen, especially weavers. In the social context of ancient India, the offering of gifts or bribes in order to obtain benefits from such persons was regarded as conduct that could diminish the faith of the people and the honor of the Saṅgha.

Principal Content

The Mahāpesakāra Sutta stipulates that monastery stewards or monastics are not permitted to bribe, offer gifts to, or entice craftsmen — especially weavers — with material goods, money, or other benefits in order to have their work completed more quickly or to a higher standard. Such conduct is regarded as a manifestation of greed (lobha), a failure to uphold the Vinaya, and a violation of the spirit of Buddhist ethics.

The reason this rule was established is to protect the purity of the Saṅgha. When monastics engage in improper material transactions, they not only transgress the Vinaya but also undermine the trust of the lay community. A monastic seen bribing others for personal gain forfeits the respect and veneration of society.

The text further emphasizes that monastics who are genuinely practicing in accordance with the Buddha's way should have neither desires nor necessities that compel them to engage in such impure transactions. If services are needed, they should be sought with an attitude of reverence and gratitude, and not through negotiation or bribery.