San Lo Bu Pm Ss 12Difficult to Correct
Pāli / Sanskrit:Dubbaca
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THE SUTRA ON BEING DIFFICULT TO CORRECT (Dubbaca)
Background
The Dubbaca sutra (difficult to correct) belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka in the Theravāda Buddha-Dharma tradition, specifically the Sanghādisesa section (offenses requiring verification by the Sangha). This sutra is presented in the context of monastery management and the regulation of the conduct of monastics in order to maintain the discipline of practice.
In the system of monastic law (Vinaya), the rules are not harsh impositions but instructions for the common benefit of the Sangha and the faithful. The Dubbaca sutra highlights an important issue: when a monastic has committed a fault and is difficult to correct in attitude or action, the community must have an appropriate way to respond. This is one of the matters related to “being difficult to correct” (dubbaca, from “du” = difficult + “baca” = correct).
This context reflects a reality in monasteries: not all members always cooperate positively. Some may be stubborn, refuse to listen to admonition, or continue violating the discipline. Therefore, the Buddha taught that the community needs a wise attitude in educating those who are difficult to correct.
Main Content
The Dubbaca sutra concerns a situation in which a monastic commits violations and displays a “difficult to correct” state of mind — that is, refusing to acknowledge fault, failing to improve, or continuing to commit similar offenses. The key point is how the Sangha community should respond.
According to the Vinaya, when a monastic is considered “difficult to correct,” the steps of handling include:
First, the community must admonish the person frankly and repeatedly, so that they truly have the opportunity to recognize their fault. This admonition is not an authoritarian command but compassionate advice from those of higher virtue.
Second, if that person still refuses to change, the community may apply disciplinary measures according to the Vinaya, with the purpose of reform, not punishment. The final aim remains to help that person return to the proper path of practice.
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