Lzh Mg Bu Pm Pc 75Legitimate Correction
Pāli / Sanskrit:Sahadhammika
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SAHADHAMMIKA SUTTA — CORRECTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DHAMMA
Background
The Sahadhammika belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, found specifically within the Pātimokkha and the detailed regulations of the Pātimokkha-vibhaṅga. This text concerns the rules for handling instances of transgression within the Saṅgha (the community of monastics).
The term "Sahadhammika" may be understood as "that which is in accordance with the Dhamma" or "legitimate correction." In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, these are regulations governing the manner in which the wrongful conduct of members of the Saṅgha is to be handled and corrected, in a just manner grounded in the principle of Dhamma. This is not arbitrary punishment, but rather a process of correction guided by the spirit of adherence to the Dhamma.
These regulations were established to maintain the purity and harmony of the monastic community, ensuring that all correction takes place openly, transparently, and with the consent of the Saṅgha.
Main Content
The Sahadhammika stipulates that the correction of a monastic who has transgressed the Vinaya must adhere to certain fundamental principles. First, the correction must be carried out "in accordance with the Dhamma" (dhammikā), meaning it must be grounded in the clear provisions of the Pātimokkha and in matters that have been recognized by the Buddha and the Saṅgha.
Second, throughout the process of correction, the monastic must be treated fairly. The Saṅgha community must deliberate in a balanced manner, listening to the side being corrected, and must not impose penalties exceeding the gravity of the actual offense. This reflects the principle of respect for the status and dignity of each individual within the Saṅgha.
Third, the correction must involve the assembly of the Saṅgha; it is not a decision to be made by any single individual or small group. This procedure is known as "Saṅgha-kamma" (an Act of the Saṅgha), and it requires either consensus or at least the assent of the majority of Saṅgha members present.
These regulations also protect the rights of the monastic who is being corrected.
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