Lzh Mu Bi Pm Sk 1Evenly All Around
Pāli / Sanskrit:Parimaṇḍala
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Parimaṇḍala Sutta — Balanced All Around
Background
The Parimaṇḍala Sutta (Balanced All Around) belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, the code that forms the ethical and disciplinary foundation of the Buddhist Sangha. This is not a discourse on transcendent doctrine, but a set of practical regulations on communal life, fairness, and balance within a community seeking the path.
The title “Parimaṇḍala” (pari = around; maṇḍala = circle) indicates the principle of balance everywhere, without partiality. In the context of the Vinaya Piṭaka, this is justice and fairness applied equally to all members of the Sangha, regardless of status or seniority. This text reflects the democratic spirit of the monastic community in the Buddha’s time, where matters were discussed openly and decided by majority.
Main Content
The specific content of this text in the Vinaya Piṭaka concerns principles of fair handling within the Sangha. The main emphasis is balance in the application of discipline, in the distribution of common property, and in carrying out collective rules.
When an issue arises, whether it concerns any bhikkhu or bhikkhunī, the principle of “balanced all around” requires everyone to observe the same ethical standards. No one may be favored or discriminated against because they are a long-standing disciple of someone, or because of their country of birth. All Pātimokkha rules (fundamental precepts) are applied with absolute fairness.
The text also suggests that the property, provisions, and robes of the Sangha must be distributed in a balanced way. Even in decisions concerning finances or shared resources, there should be no partiality or monopoly. Every member of the Sangha, from the newly ordained to the noble ones, is part of this “circle” and deserves fair treatment.
Practical Meaning
The principle of Parimaṇḍala is not merely an administrative regulation. It is a concrete expression of the doctrine of the Middle Way — avoiding extremes of power and discrimination.
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