Lzh Mg Bu Pm Ss 11Following a Schismatic
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhedānuvattaka
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Sutta on Following a Schismatic (Bhedānuvattaka)
Background
The Bhedānuvattaka Sutta (Following a Schismatic) is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically within the Sutta Vibhaṅga of the Pātimokkha (the Code of Discipline). It is one of the regulatory provisions of the Buddhist Saṅgha, pertaining to the protection of unity and harmony within the monastic community.
According to the Theravāda tradition, the Buddha held the harmony (samaggī) of the Saṅgha in the highest regard. Those who cause schism, driven by the agitation of desire and a discordant mind, not only harm themselves but also weaken the collective strength of those engaged in training and practice. Accordingly, the regulations concerning "one who follows a schismatic" were established by the Buddha or by senior disciples as a warning to those with a tendency to create division or to interpret the Dhamma and Vinaya on their own terms.
Main Content
The specific content of this sutta has not been rendered in full translation within the supplied descriptive information; however, according to the general context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, "one who follows a schismatic" (bhedānuvattaka) refers to an individual within the Saṅgha whose actions or words support, defend, or promote that which the Buddha warned would bring about disorder.
The crucial point here is the distinction between the schismatic proper (bhedaka) and one who follows such a person. The follower need not be the one who organizes the schism, yet by approving of, defending, or repeating divisive views, that person becomes an accomplice. The Vinaya Piṭaka regards this act of following as a transgression of the precepts (Sīla), pertaining in particular to the category of Saṅghādisesa — those offenses requiring formal action and rehabilitation by the Saṅgha.
Behaviors constituting "following" may include: repeating schismatic statements, encouraging others to participate in acts of schism, or refusing to reconcile when the Saṅgha seeks to resolve a dispute.
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