Lzh Mu Bi Vb Ss 1Matchmaking

Sañcaritta Sutta: The Rule Concerning Arranging Marriage

Background

The Sañcaritta Sutta, meaning “going between” or “arranging marriage,” is a rule belonging to the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the section of discipline for bhikkhunīs. This is part of the Great Discipline for bhikkhunīs in the Theravāda Vinaya, recorded in ancient Pāli texts.

The context in which this rule appears is tied to specific situations that arose in the community of monks and nuns of the Buddha. As Buddhism developed, bhikkhunīs needed clear guidance on conduct in interactions with men, especially activities that could be misunderstood or diminish the honor of the community as a whole. This rule reflects the wisdom of the Buddha-Dharma in protecting the collectedness of practice and the honor of the community of moral discipline.

Main Content

The Sañcaritta Sutta prescribes that a bhikkhunī must not take part in leading, arranging, or acting as an intermediary for marriages or romantic relationships between men and women. Specifically, a bhikkhunī should not:

Directly participate in finding spouses for others, whether laypeople or those of lower standing within the religious community. This action is considered a departure from monastic practice and a descent into worldly affairs unsuitable for one who has gone forth.

Help arrange meetings or carry messages between people interested in one another. This is considered indirect participation in emotional matters from which one gone forth should remain distant.

Use her skills or influence to promote marital relationships, because such action disturbs the collectedness of practice and may lead to undesirable outcomes.

The deeper reason for this rule lies in the principle of separation and purity (pabbajita) for those who have gone forth. One gone forth has relinquished the pursuit of youth, beauty, and worldly desires, including matters related to marriage and human affection.