Bi As 55. Majority Decision

THE SCRIPTURE ON DECISION BY MAJORITY (Yebhuyyasikā)

Background

The Scripture on Decision by Majority is found in the Vinaya Piṭaka, specifically in the Bi As section (the subtle rules), which records the regulations for resolving disputes within the Saṅgha. During the early period of Theravāda Buddhism, as the Saṅgha grew and the number of monastics increased, disagreements concerning the Dhamma and discipline arose frequently. Such disputes could persist indefinitely without a clear mechanism for resolution, undermining the unity and practice of the community. Therefore, the Buddha established fair methods for settling these controversies, among which is the method of decision by majority (Yebhuyyasikā).

This scripture reflects the Buddha's practical leadership of the community: he did not merely leave behind teachings alone, but also built an organization capable of self-regulation and the maintenance of harmony. This method balances respect for the opinion of each individual with the need for a collective decision on behalf of the community.

Main Content

The method of Yebhuyyasikā (Yebhuyyasikā dhamma — the rule of decision by majority) is applied when a dispute within the Saṅgha cannot be resolved through three other methods: the presentation of facts (Sammohanā), recollection (Sativinaya), and acknowledgment by vote (Paññattivinaya). When a controversy is prolonged and the parties involved remain fixed in their own views, the Saṅgha proceeds to an open vote.

This procedure requires the members of the Saṅgha to assemble at a single location, convene, and deliberate upon the matter in dispute. Those qualified to render judgment discuss the various aspects of the issue thoroughly on the basis of the Dhamma and the Vinaya. After full deliberation, the Saṅgha conducts a vote, and the decision of the majority is regarded as the official decision of the community. This decision is binding upon all members, regardless of their personal views.