San Lo Bi Vb As 6Majority Decision
Pāli / Sanskrit:Yebhuyyasikā
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Yebhuyyasikā Sutta (Decision by Majority)
Background
The Yebhuyyasikā Sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga, the discipline for bhikkhunīs, and is recognized as one of the important rules concerning decision-making procedures in the early Buddhist community. It is part of the monastic legal system established by the Buddha to maintain discipline and harmony in the Sangha.
This discourse reflects the historical context in which Buddhism was developing, and matters of order, dispute, and their resolution became necessary. The principle of “decision by majority” (yebhuyyasikā) is one of the earliest democratic mechanisms recorded in history, allowing the monastic community to resolve disputes or make important decisions in a fair and transparent manner.
Main Content
In Yebhuyyasikā, the Buddha gave guidance on how to make decisions based on the principle of majority. This means that when there is disagreement within the Sangha, whether concerning the preservation of the precepts, the settlement of disputes among members, or administrative matters of the monastery, a decision is made by taking the opinion of the whole qualified body of elders, those senior or eligible monastics, and choosing the course supported by the majority.
This process is not merely “voting” in the modern sense, but also includes profound ethical principles. Members of the Sangha are expected to discuss matters with listening, reflection, and an orientation toward what is best for the community. A majority decision is regarded as an expression of collective wisdom, rather than as a balancing of personal interests.
The discourse also states that after a decision has been approved, all members, including those who disagree, must respect and follow that decision. This is to protect the unity of the Sangha (sanghasannipāta) and prevent division.
Practical Meaning
The Yebhuyyasikā principle is not only historically significant but also has deep value in modern practice.
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