San Mu Bu Pm GBM 3 Ss 11Following a Schismatic
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhedānuvattaka
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THE SŪTRA ON FOLLOWING A SCHISMATIC
Background
Bhedānuvattaka (The Sūtra on Following a Schismatic) is recorded in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Pāli Canon, within the Saṅghādisesa section, rules related to harmony in the Sangha. This sūtra arose from a specific situation in the early Buddhist community, when a certain bhikkhu wished to follow a figure who was causing division in the Sangha.
The historical context of the sūtra is the Buddha’s lifetime, when certain bhikkhus deliberately created discord and formed opposing groups within the monastic community. This was a serious threat to the purity and unity of the religious community. Therefore, Vinaya rules were promulgated to protect the integrity of the Sangha and prevent division from within.
Main Content
The Bhedānuvattaka Sūtra deals with the situation in which a bhikkhu deliberately follows and supports a person causing division (bheda), that is, creating a split in the Sangha through divisive words or actions. This act of "following" (anuvattaka) is not accidental, but a conscious choice.
The specific rule states that if a bhikkhu, clearly knowing that someone is attempting to create division in the Sangha, nevertheless continues to support, follow closely, or promote that action, that bhikkhu commits a type of Saṅghādisesa offense. This is a grave offense (Saṅghādisesa) because it is directly related to the harmony and unity of the entire Sangha.
The important point is awareness and understanding. The bhikkhu must clearly understand that the person he follows is a creator of division, and still deliberately continue that conduct. If he does not know or is unaware, the violation is considered differently. This rule emphasizes the importance of right understanding and personal responsibility in maintaining communal harmony.
Practical Meaning
Whether in the Buddha’s own time or in the present age, the Bhedānuvattaka Sūtra offers a profound lesson about the relationship between the individual and the collective.
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