San Lo Bu Pm Pc 90Groundless Accusation
Pāli / Sanskrit:Amūlaka
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DISCOURSE ON GROUNDLESS ACCUSATIONS (Amūlaka)
Background
The Amūlaka discourse is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, one of the three collections of the Theravāda Buddhist sacred canon. The Vinaya Piṭaka contains the rules and events related to the monastic community (Saṃgha) of the Buddha Śākyamuni. This discourse specifically belongs to the Pātimokkha section, the basic rules of the path that bhikkhus and bhikkhunīs must observe.
The Amūlaka discourse revolves around a situation involving groundless accusations (amūlaka), that is, false or baseless charges raised against monastics. In the context of the Saṃgha community, such accusations can undermine harmony (samaggī) and trust among its members. Therefore, the Buddha gave guidelines to protect the integrity of monastics and maintain order in the Saṃgha.
Main Content
The discourse teaches that a monastic is not permitted to raise accusations against another without firm evidence or an authentic basis. “Groundless” accusations (amūlaka) include false statements, words based on vague hearsay, or fabricated remarks intended to damage another’s honor.
According to the Pātimokkha, when a bhikkhu presents an accusation against another bhikkhu without grounds, he has violated a prohibition. This is examined carefully: whether the accusation is based on direct observation, testimony from trustworthy people, or merely personal conjecture. Only when an accusation has a firm basis can it be considered properly judged.
The discourse also clarifies that the purpose of raising an accusation must not be hatred or jealousy, but the wish to protect the Dharma and maintain Saṃgha discipline. If the motive is not pure, the accusation becomes wrongful conduct that creates division within the monastic community.
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