A Comparative Study of the Pratimoksha

Pratimoksa refers to a set of Buddhist monastic disciplinary rules that govern the daily conduct of monks (bhiksus) and their decorum. The Buddha established it on several occasions because of necessity. This book discusses the historical, religious, and social issues of ancient India with regard to the reasoning behind the formulation of particular precepts. The rules can be either enforced or suspended depending on special circumstances. The Buddhist Sangha is authorized to impose penalties on the offender, which can include expulsion, penance forfeiture, repentance, or probation. The Sangha can achieve purity, harmony, and spiritual liberation by effectively enforcing Pratimoksa’s code and following the fortnightly recitation of this text. This study compares the different versions of Buddhist sects in Sanskrit and Pali, Chinese, Tibetan, and Chinese languages. It also shows how the code grew over several centuries from 218 rules by the Mahasanghikas into 263 by the Sarvastivadins. The historical perspective can help us better appreciate the importance of the Buddhist Sangha’s legal, religious and social life.