The Dharma Subjects of a False Claiming a Superhuman Quality according to Principles in the Vinaya Pitaka

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the doctrinal elements of the false claim of superhuman attainments according to the Vinaya Pitaka. The false claim of superhuman attainments is an important rule established in the Vinaya by the Buddha to prevent monks from claiming superhuman qualities that they do not possess, using such claims as a means to seek gain, honor, praise, or reverence from the laity. This offense is clearly stated in the Vinaya Pitaka, Mahāvibhaṅga. The act of falsely claiming superhuman attainments is considered as follows: (1) a direct claim (claiming superhuman attainments that are not actually possessed by oneself), where if the listener understands the meaning, the monk committing the act incurs a Pārājika offense; (2) a claim (of superhuman attainments not possessed) without specifying the listener, where if even one listener understands, the monk incurs a Pārājika offense, but if the listener does not understand, the monk incurs a Thullaccaya offense. The indirect claim of superhuman attainments is of three types: (1) referring to physical characteristics, (2) referring to requisites such as bowl and robes, and (3) referring to one’s dwelling place. The Pārājika offense in this training rule is a conscious act (sacittaka). The doctrinal elements of the false claim of superhuman attainments in the Vinaya reveal the intention of the Buddha in establishing this rule, namely, to preserve the purity of the Dhamma-Vinaya and the stability of the Sangha. This prohibition was not only intended to regulate monastic conduct legally but also to establish a moral framework that upholds truthfulness, honesty, and purity of mind in monks who practice according to the teachings of Buddhism. Furthermore, it serves as a safeguard against the corruption of the Sangha through wrongful claims of superhuman attainments. The doctrinal elements of the offense of false claims of superhuman attainments thus have value both in terms of the Vinaya and in the present social context, as they help prevent the decline of faith among the Buddhist community and ensure the continued stability of Buddhism.