Cullavagga

The Cullavagga is the fifth book of the Sutta Pitaka, which is part of the Pali Canon of Theravada Buddhism. It is considered a Vinaya text, meaning it deals with the rules and regulations for the monastic community, the Sangha. The Cullavagga, along with the Parivara, forms the second section of the Vinaya Pitaka, following the Suttavibhanga.

This text is divided into ten chapters, or vagga. These chapters cover a wide range of disciplinary matters and historical events related to the early Sangha. Topics include the rules for monks and nuns, the ordination procedures, the establishment of the Sangha, the process for dealing with offenses and disputes within the community, and the convening of important councils. Notably, the Cullavagga recounts the First Buddhist Council, held shortly after the Buddha's passing, where the teachings were recited and the Vinaya rules were formally established. It also details the Second Buddhist Council, which addressed schisms within the Sangha.

The Cullavagga provides valuable insights into the social and organizational structure of the early Buddhist monastic order. It outlines the practical aspects of communal living, the ethical guidelines, and the mechanisms for maintaining harmony and doctrinal purity. The text is essential for understanding the development of Buddhist monastic discipline and the historical context of the early Sangha.