Lzh Mi Bi Vb Pc 47Legitimate Correction
Pāli / Sanskrit:Sahadhammika
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The Scripture on Legitimate Correction (Sahadhammika)
Background
The Scripture on Legitimate Correction (Sahadhammika) is found in the Pātimokkha, the fundamental code for bhikkhus in the Theravāda Buddhist tradition. Belonging to the Pācittiya section, the lighter offenses, this scripture addresses a subtle issue within the Sangha: the proper way members admonish or correct one another.
The historical context records that the Buddha instructed the Sangha on how to maintain harmony and internal discipline through mutual correction according to the Dhamma, the teaching of the Dharma. This differs from correction based on personal feeling or resentment. The Sahadhammika scripture emphasizes that legitimate correction is correction undertaken from a motive for the Dharma, for the common practice.
Main Content
The scripture stipulates that a bhikkhu must not admonish or correct another bhikkhu if the motive does not come from the Dhamma, that is, if it is not in the spirit of Dharma practice. Specifically, “legitimate” correction (sahadhammika) must meet the following criteria:
First, the one correcting must have a mind directed toward the welfare of the one being corrected, not arise from personal dissatisfaction or a desire to demean someone. Second, the correction must address actual violations of the Vinaya, not conjectures or misunderstandings. Third, the manner of correction must be courteous and respectful toward the one being corrected, without publicly insulting or humiliating them.
If correction is carried out outside these criteria, for example, to retaliate, to display power, or on the basis of self-serving weakness, then it is a violation of Pācittiya, a class of offense requiring admission and confession. This rule protects not only the one being corrected from unfair insult, but also the spirit of harmony in the community of practice.
Practical Meaning
The Sahadhammika scripture teaches that correction is a noble activity of Dhamma, but only when performed in the right way.
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