Xct Mu Bi Pm Pc 159Reviling a Group
Pāli / Sanskrit:Gaṇaparibhāsana
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An Explanation of the Gaṇaparibhāsana Sutta (Criticizing a Group)
Background
The Gaṇaparibhāsana Sutta is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Pātimokkha—the fundamental prohibitions for bhikkhus. This sutta addresses a very practical disciplinary issue: when a bhikkhu criticizes or reviles a group of monastics.
According to the historical background, the Buddha saw that within the monastic community there were those who accused or criticized an entire group of monks, not only an individual. This action created division and weakened the cohesion and harmony (Samaggi) of the Sangha. Therefore, the Buddha established a rule to prevent this conduct. This is one of the Pācittiya offenses in the Pātimokkha.
Main Content
The rule on criticizing a group states that if a bhikkhu deliberately speaks words of abuse, criticism, or aggression toward a group of monastics, not merely one person, with the purpose of offending them or creating discord, that bhikkhu commits a Pācittiya offense.
The scope of this rule includes speech intended to damage group cohesion. What is important is the difference between: (1) legitimately criticizing someone’s wrong action, and (2) criticizing or insulting an entire group in order to create a wave of division. The sutta emphasizes that motive (Cetanā) and destructive purpose are the chief factors in determining the offense.
If the bhikkhu admits the fault and corrects it after being reminded, or if the act was not done intentionally, then the degree of violation may differ. However, if the conduct is repeated or carried out with clear malice, then a process of confession (Pāṭidesanā) or appropriate disciplinary measures is needed.
Practical Meaning
The Gaṇaparibhāsana Sutta teaches us a profound lesson about speech and its social impact.
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