The Role of Commentaries in Resolving Doubts and Elucidating the Vinaya Pitaka: A Case Study of Sanghadisesa Rules

Abstract

The Vinaya Pitaka serves as the fundamental foundation and the life of Buddhism. However, relying solely on the original Pali texts often presents challenges in interpretation due to the profundity of the language and evolving social contexts. Consequently, the Commentaries (Atthakatha), particularly the "Samantapasadika," have become indispensable tools for elucidating the Buddha's rulings. This academic article aims to investigate the role of the Commentaries in explaining, interpreting, and adjudicating offenses within the 13 "Sanghadisesa" training rules, which are grave offenses second only to Parajika.

The findings reveal that the Commentaries function as a crucial mechanism of "Buddhist Jurisprudence" in three main dimensions: 1) Defining the Scope of Actions: By clarifying terminology and specifying the constituent factors of offenses (Anga) to prevent ambiguity; 2) Judging Intention: By distinguishing between physical actions and psychological states (such as lust or volition); and 3) Establishing Precedents: By providing case studies and analogies to ensure clarity in practical application. In conclusion, the Commentaries are not merely supplementary texts but are essential instruments for maintaining accuracy and justice in Vinaya judgment, thereby ensuring the stability of the Monastic Order.