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BHEDĀNUVATTAKA SCRIPTURE: FOLLOWING ONE WHO CREATES DIVISION

Context

The Bhedānuvattaka scripture is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Samantapāsādika or in bodies of rules related to the community of monks and nuns. The Theravāda tradition, the Pāli Canon, records that after Śākyamuni Buddha entered nirvana, different schools formed within the Sangha community, some due to differences in understanding the Dharma and in the practice of the Vinaya. This scripture deals with a situation in which a monk, nun, or group of monastics separates from the official Sangha community, forming an independent group or "bhedana" (division/separation).

The central issue is: if a monastic follows or joins a group creating division in the Sangha, what happens to that monastic? This regulation is very important because the unity of the Saṅgha is regarded as the foundation of Dharma practice and the continuity of the Dharma.

Main Content

According to the law of the Pāli Canon, a monk or nun who follows one who creates division (bhedaka, a divider) will bear serious consequences. "Following" (anuvattaka) is not only attending meetings of this separated group, but also accepting the rules, doctrines, or practices proposed by that group.

In the Vinaya Piṭaka, this offense is classified as Saṅghādisesa or Pācittiya, depending on the continuity and clarity of the following. If the monastic does not correct this and continues this conduct, they may be declared "unable to cooperate" (asaṅghaṭṭha) in tiramana (quiet practice) sessions or other important monastic events.

The important point is that the Dhamma-Vinaya transmitted by the Buddha can be protected and developed only through the harmony of the entire Sangha. Division is the "second offense" (dutiya-appa-tika); after the offense of creating division itself, the act of following and supporting a state of division is also considered a grave fault.