Lzh Mu Bi Pm Ss 18Following a Schismatic
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhedānuvattaka
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THE SUTTA ON FOLLOWING ONE WHO CAUSES DIVISION (BHEDĀNUVATTAKA)
Background
Bhedānuvattaka is a part of the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically within the rules concerning the conduct of the Sangha (the monastic community). This sutta is recorded in the historical context of early Buddhism, when issues of schism in the community (Sangha) became serious challenges to the unity and purity of the community of practice.
The term “Bhedānuvattaka” is formed from two Pāli words: bheda (division, discord) and anuvattaka (follower, one who conforms). This sutta refers to ethical and disciplinary issues related to following monastics who cause or participate in divisive activities within the community. It is part of early Buddhism’s effort to protect consistency and harmony in the Sangha.
Main Content
According to the spirit of the Theravāda Vinaya Piṭaka, this sutta refers to regulations concerning allegiance and association with those who cause division in the community. It establishes that deliberately following, supporting, or associating with monastics who have clearly caused or maintained division in the Sangha is an act of disciplinary violation.
Specifically, this sutta establishes the principle that members of the Sangha have the responsibility not to assist divisive activities and not to support those who cause division (bhedaka). Division is regarded as a serious offense against the Sangha, because it destroys the unity and harmony that are the foundation for collective practice and the transmission of the true Dharma.
The sutta further regulates that those who deliberately follow or support people who cause division will be considered to have violated the rules of discipline. This encourages honesty and loyalty to the unity of the community of practice, and warns of the consequences of taking sides or supporting divisive tendencies.
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