San Sarv Bi Pm Tf 3215 Ss 11Following a Schismatic
Pāli / Sanskrit:Bhedānuvattaka
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The Bhedānuvattaka Sutta: Following One Who Causes Division
Background
The Bhedānuvattaka Sutta is found in the Vinaya Pitaka, specifically in the Bhikkhuni Pātimokkha, or the regulations for bhikkhunis. These are among the most detailed disciplinary texts in the Pali Canon, recording the specific situations that gave rise to training rules (sikkhāpada) for taming the mind and protecting harmony within the Sangha body.
The historical background of this sutta is connected with events that caused division (bheda) in the Sangha body, occasions of disharmony brought about by the views or actions of its members. The Vinaya Pitaka, as a historical and legal document of the early Buddhist organization, records these incidents for the purpose of guiding the monastic community so that old mistakes are not repeated. Division in the Sangha body is a most serious matter, because according to the Buddha Dharma, harmony (samaggi) is regarded as one of the most favorable conditions for the flourishing of the Dharma path.
Main Content
The Bhedānuvattaka Sutta revolves around rules related to following, supporting, or participating in the activities of a person who causes division in the Sangha body. The term “Bhedānuvattaka” means “one who follows or supports division,” referring to monastics who participate in or support divisive actions.
The sutta clearly states that any bhikkhu or bhikkhuni who intentionally follows, supports, or participates in activities aimed at causing division in the Sangha body commits serious prohibited acts. These are not minor or ordinary violations, but matters approaching the level of Saṅghādisesa, offenses that must be dealt with according to the decision of the Sangha body.
The Vinaya prohibits not only direct actions that cause division, but also the implicit or public support of those who attempt to divide the Sangha body. This includes approving of, defending, or taking part in meetings intended to separate or create a distinct faction within the Sangha.
Practical Meaning
The deeper purpose of this sutta is to protect the integrity and harmony of the community of practice.
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