Buddhist Innovation in Sangha Administration: Lessons Learned from Sanghakamma in the Vinaya Pitaka towards Harmony

Abstract

This academic article aims to analyze "Sanghakamma" (Ecclesiastical Acts) in the Vinaya Pitaka as an innovation in Sangha organization management and to extract lessons for synthesizing guidelines to promote harmony amidst the current administrative crisis of the Thai Sangha. The study reveals that Sanghakamma is not merely a religious ritual but a social innovation based on "Dhammocracy," which seamlessly integrates the rule of law with virtue ethics. It features a systematic hierarchy of decision-making and administration, ranging from Apilokana-kamma to Natti-catuttha-kamma. These mechanisms reflect principles of checks and balances, protection of minority rights, and restorative justice through the Seven Settlement of Disputes Adhikaranasamatha 7.

This article synthesizes a new body of knowledge termed the "Buddhist Innovation for Harmony Model (BIH Model)," consisting of four key components: 1) Wisdom-based participation, 2) Check and balance mechanisms with cognitive time-gaps, 3) Rule of Dhamma equality, and 4) Spiritual unity through physical processes. Furthermore, it suggests practical applications for revitalizing Sangha governance, conflict management, and utilizing technology for transparency, thereby enabling the Sangha to maintain its status and public faith securely in the era of digital disruption.