Lzh Mg Bu Pm Pc 3Malicious Talebearing
Pāli / Sanskrit:Pesuñña
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The Discourse on Malicious Talebearing (Pesuñña) — The Vinaya Piṭaka
Background
Pesuñña, translated as "malicious talebearing" or "divisive speech," is one of the fundamental ethical rules recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon. This rule was established in order to protect the harmony of the monastic Saṅgha and to preserve the purity of mind of those who practise the holy life.
According to the Theravāda tradition, malicious talebearing is not merely a form of lying; it is a deliberate act of driving a wedge between individuals or of stirring up conflict among those who are on good terms with one another. It is one of the five forms of conduct prohibited in the Pañcaśīla (the five fundamental precepts) and is also one of the ten unwholesome actions (akusala kamma).
Principal Content
Pesuñña is defined as speech intended to separate people, to cause division, or to damage relationships. This conduct includes the uttering of angry or offensive words, as well as the repeating of another person's words in a distorted manner so as to provoke conflict. Within the context of the Saṅgha, the troubles brought about by malicious talebearing can shatter the unity that is essential for collective practice and for the growth of the Buddha-Dhamma.
This canonical rule indicates that the talebearer (pesukkara, one who habitually engages in divisive speech) generates unwholesome action that brings about harmful consequences. One who practises malicious talebearing causes harm not only to others but also to oneself, for such conduct gives rise to hatred, division, and even violence within the community.
The Vinaya Piṭaka emphasises that monks and nuns who deliberately violate this rule are subject to corresponding penalties such as confession and expiation, or, in serious cases, may forfeit their standing within the Saṅgha. This reflects the gravity with which Theravāda Buddhism regards the conduct of malicious talebearing.
Practical Significance
The discourse on Pesuñña teaches us that words possess genuine power. Speech is capable of creating peace or creating conflict within the minds of human beings. The practice of refraining from malicious talebearing is not merely a formal rule; it is a means of cultivating loving-kindness (mettā) and equanimity (upekkhā).
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