Grammatical Analysis
Suttavibhaṅga: [m.] The Analysis of the Rules. Formed by sutta (rule, thread, clause) + vibhaṅga (analysis, breakdown, explanation). In the Vinaya context, “sutta” refers specifically to the rules of the Pātimokkha.
Orthodox Definition
The Suttavibhaṅga is the first major division of the Vinaya Piṭaka. It contains the exhaustive, legalistic analysis of every single rule in the monks’ and nuns’ disciplinary code (Pātimokkha).
It is structured meticulously. For every rule, the text provides:
- The Origin Story: The specific historical event or scandalous behavior of a monk or nun that forced the Buddha to lay down the rule.
- The Rule Itself: The exact, legally binding phrasing of the precept.
- The Word-Commentary: A hyper-literal, word-by-word definition of the rule to prevent loopholes.
- The Casuistry: A massive list of hypothetical scenarios, exemptions, and mitigating circumstances (e.g., if a monk commits an offense while insane, under extreme duress, or unintentionally).
The Suttavibhaṅga forms the absolute backbone of Theravāda monastic jurisprudence.
Textual References
- Vinaya: Divided into two parts: the Bhikkhuvibhaṅga (analysis of the 227 rules for monks) and the Bhikkhunīvibhaṅga (analysis of the rules unique to nuns).
- Commentary: Samantapāsādikā – Buddhaghosa’s masterful legal commentary providing subsequent case law.