Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Pc 91Dismissing a Companion

Discourse on Dismissing a Fellow Practitioner (Dutiyikauyyojana)

Background

This discourse is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, in the Patimokkha, the complete code of discipline of the Early Buddhist Sangha. Specifically, it is one of the regulations in the Pācittiya section, a class of minor offenses requiring confession. The discourse was recorded when the Buddha, observing that disharmony was increasing in the bhikkhu community, gave guidance to protect the spirit of unity and discipline within the Sangha.

The term “Dutiyikauyyojana” has roots in Pāli words: “dutiyika” (second, repeated) and “uyyojana” (dismissal, removal). Thus this discourse concerns dismissing or separating from a companion in practice, an action that can cause division in the community if it does not follow proper principles.

Main Content

According to the Early Buddhist Vinaya tradition, when a bhikkhu wishes to reject or sever association with another bhikkhu, whether for reasons of conduct, character, or conflict, he must do so officially and transparently, not through silence or avoidance.

The discourse states that if a bhikkhu wishes to “dismiss” a fellow practitioner, he may not decide arbitrarily, but must follow certain procedural steps. In particular, he may not act secretly, create conflict, or cause discomfort to others in the community without the witness of the Sangha.

This protects both sides: the person dismissed is not bewildered or humiliated, and the person performing the action is also protected from accusations of arbitrariness or unfairness. The discourse emphasizes that any decision affecting harmony in the community requires clarity and the consent of the Sangha.

Practical Meaning

The Dutiyikauyyojana discourse teaches us that in a community of practice, resolving conflict or separation must be carried out with respect, transparency, and openness.