Lzh Mi Bi Vb Pc 57Groundless Accusation

The Scripture on Groundless Accusation (Amūlaka)

Background

This scripture belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically the Pācittiya section, concerning faults that require confession. Amūlaka means “without root” or “without basis,” referring to groundless accusations. The scripture is recorded in the context of the Buddha’s monastic community, when ethical principles were needed to maintain harmony and trust among members of the Sangha.

The history of the establishment of this rule is connected with disputes in the early monastic community. When Bhikṣus or Bhikṣuṇīs initiated accusations against one another without actual evidence, this caused division, injured reputation, and undermined the shared relationship of practice. The Buddha therefore established this training rule to protect the integrity of the Sangha body.

Main Content

The Amūlaka scripture stipulates that a Bhikṣu or Bhikṣuṇī must not initiate or repeat accusations against another without an actual basis. A groundless accusation is defined as an allegation of a violation of the disciplinary rules for which the speaker cannot provide clear evidence: no direct witnessing, no confession by the accused, and no other traces or proofs in support.

This training rule is very serious because false speech can create grave consequences: damaging the reputation of the accused, undermining the unity of the Sangha, and giving rise to conflict and resentment. If a person initiates such an accusation, they commit a Pācittiya offense, that is, a fault requiring confession and the restoration of one’s state of mind before the Sangha or another Bhikṣu.

The scripture also makes clear that repeating or spreading groundless accusations is likewise considered a violation, whether the speaker’s intention is good or bad. This emphasizes each person’s responsibility for every word they speak.