San Mg Bu Pm Ss 11Following a Schismatic

Explanation of the Bhedānuvattaka Scripture (Following One Who Causes Schism)

Background

The Bhedānuvattaka scripture is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Saṅgha Bheda Vibhaṅga, the rules concerning offenses that may lead to division in the Sangha body. This is one of the most important prohibitions in the discipline of the Buddhadharma, because maintaining the harmony of the Sangha is a prerequisite for the propagation and long-term survival of the Buddhadharma.

The historical background of this scripture concerns events in the early monastic community, when certain figures attempted to create separate groups or break the unity of the Sangha. The Buddha established clear regulations to prevent this phenomenon, in order to protect the adaptability and collective strength of the community of Buddhist renunciants.

Main Content

The Bhedānuvattaka scripture deals with the case of nuns or bhikkhus who cause division in the Sangha (bheda). According to the rule, when division occurs, anyone, whether a monastic or a temple layperson, who intentionally follows that schismatic and cooperates with them in maintaining the division is considered to have violated the fundamental principles of the Vinaya.

“Following one who causes schism” (bhedānuvattaka) does not simply mean being physically present with that person, but means clear or silent approval of divisive actions. The scripture prescribes that such persons must be admonished and required to abandon their support. If they refuse, the community will impose appropriate disciplinary measures.

What is important is that this scripture speaks not only of the offense of an individual but also emphasizes the collective responsibility of the Sangha to maintain its adaptability. The Sangha must function as a unified body, following decisions reached through lawful quorums (samaggapaṭisaṃvidā).