San Lo Bu Pm Sk 1Evenly All Around
Pāli / Sanskrit:Parimaṇḍala
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EXPLANATION OF THE PARIMAṆḌALA DISCOURSE
The Discourse “Evenly and Completely All Around”
Background
The Parimaṇḍala discourse is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically in the Pāli Patimokkha, the Recitation of the Precepts. This discourse concerns the rules of training and discipline of the Sangha, especially proper conduct and the maintenance of virtue.
The term “Parimaṇḍala” (Pali: pari = around, maṇḍala = circle) means “evenly and completely all around,” indicating a state or manner of comprehensive coverage, with nothing omitted. In the Vinaya context, this often refers to the completeness of action, kindness, or the protection of the precepts.
The Buddha issued these regulations in the context of governing the Sangha, in order to maintain harmony and purity within the renunciant community. Each rule is not a useless restriction, but an expression of wisdom and compassion.
Main Content
The Parimaṇḍala discourse focuses on the principle that the practice of discipline and virtue by a bhikkhu or bhikkhunī must be maintained “evenly and completely all around,” omitting no aspect.
Specifically, the discourse emphasizes that a monastic cannot choose to apply the precepts selectively. For example, one cannot declare that one firmly observes certain rules while deliberately violating others. The integrity of virtue requires a comprehensive commitment to all the principles of training.
In addition, this discourse is also related to a broad (parimaṇḍala) approach in providing spiritual support for monastics, cleanly and fairly, without favoritism or discrimination. Every member of the Sangha deserves to receive equivalent instruction and care.
This teaching also extends to ordinary people: they should cultivate wholesome conduct comprehensively, without distinguishing between public and private actions.
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