Lzh Mi Bi Pm Ss 11Following a Schismatic
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhedānuvattaka
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Explanation of the Bhedānuvattaka Sutta (Following One Who Causes Schism)
Background
The Bhedānuvattaka Sutta has its origin in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, the collection of monastic rules and teachings on Sangha discipline. This sutta is recorded among the disciplinary rules (Pātimokkha) and the Bhikkhu-vibhaṅga related to independent violations or actions that damage the unity of the Sangha.
The historical context of this sutta appears while the Buddha was still alive, during the period when the Sangha was developing. At such times, individuals or groups appeared who wished to separate from the main Sangha and create distinct schools or factions (bheda). The Bhedānuvattaka Sutta aims to warn of the dangers of following, supporting, or participating in such divisive actions, in order to protect the unity and harmonious spirit of the Sangha community.
Main Content
The content of this sutta is not the teaching of a Dharma factor; rather, it sets forth principles and warnings concerning actions that should not be done, especially actions related to schism in the Sangha (saṅgha-bheda).
According to the Theravāda tradition, Bhedānuvattaka states that those who follow or support one who causes schism in the Sangha will bear serious karmic consequences. If anyone follows the teachings or actions of one who causes division, that person participates in the offense. This is different from simply following a virtuous and highly respected monk, which is a meritorious act.
The sutta emphasizes that the unity of the Sangha (saṅgha-samgati) is a core element in the Teaching. A divided Sangha loses strength and loses its ability to transmit the Dharma; therefore, anyone who participates in such division creates long-lasting unwholesome causes.
Practical Meaning
In the context of modern practice, the Bhedānuvattaka Sutta carries profound lessons about steadiness and cooperation in the Buddhist community.
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