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Chapter 3: Aggannasutta (Buddhist Political Thought)
Ever wondered about the roots of political thought in ancient Buddhist scriptures? The Aggannasutta offers a fascinating glimpse into a revolutionary vision of society, caste, and governance. Let's dive in!
Scriptural Context
- Aggannasutta = Discourse on Origins
- 27th Sutta of Digha Nikaya (part of Sutta Pitaka)
- Part of Tripitaka:
- Sutta Pitaka – Discourses
- Vinaya Pitaka – Monastic discipline
- Abhidhamma Pitaka – Philosophical teachings
Background of the Sutta
- Delivered by Buddha to two Brahmin converts: Vasettha and Bharadvaja
- They were criticized for abandoning Brahminhood
- Buddha counters the idea of Brahmin supremacy and presents an alternative theory of caste and state
Key Teachings of Aggannasutta
1. Critique of Caste System
- Brahmin claims of being born from Brahma's mouth = myth
- All humans born biologically the same
- Morality > Birth; Action (Karma) is the true basis of superiority, not caste
- "A person should be judged by deeds, not by birth" — The essence of Buddhist egalitarianism.
2. Origin of Life (Evolutionary Theory)
- Early earth = darkness, covered in liquid
- Chemical evolution: A layer forms on water → life emerges
- Gradual appearance of:
- Sun, Moon, Day-Night
- Plants → Mushrooms → Rice → Human form evolves
- Gender and beauty emerge due to differences in consumption and greed
- Rejects divine creation, embraces a naturalistic, scientific origin of life
3. Origin of State (Social Contract Theory)
- As greed and theft increase, society suffers
- People appoint a wise person to maintain order
- He is paid with rice
- Called:
- Maha Sammata (People’s choice)
- Khattiya (Lord of the rice field)
- Raja (King who upholds Dhamma)
- Buddha’s state is born out of consent, not divine will – early form of democracy
4. Origin of Castes (Functional Theory)
- Castes emerge from division of labor, not divine origin:
- Khattiya (Ruler) – Appointed by people
- Brahmin – Seekers of truth and morality
- Vessa – Traders
- Sudda – Hunters and laborers
- A fifth group: Ascetics, from all castes, seeking spiritual liberation
Buddha’s Political Message
- Ethical conduct > birth or class
- Power is delegated, not ordained
- Governance must ensure justice, not privilege
- Supports dhamma-based kingship, not divine kingship
Conclusion
- Aggannasutta is a revolutionary text:
- Justifies state through social contract
- Establishes a rational, ethical caste theory
- Anticipates modern ideas of equality, contract, and rational state
The Aggannasutta reminds us that true progress comes from wisdom, morality, and collective well-being, not birthright or imposed power. A timeless message for today!