A Buddhist Response to Family Conflict: A Study of Sujātā Sutta
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Abstract
This article explores the Buddha’s teachings as a framework for resolving family conflicts, particularly between husbands and wives, to foster household happiness and promote broader societal harmony. Based on the Sujātā Sutta in the Aṅguttara Nikāya, this research identifies four primary sources of family conflict: heavy responsibilities, sexual issues, financial pressures, and mistrust among family members. These conflicts are viewed as natural outcomes of human attachment to the physical world and the influence of craving, emotional distress, and attachment on mental faculties.
The Sujātā Sutta introduces the concept of seven types of wives, categorizing them into two broad groups: those who exacerbate conflicts (slayer-wife, robber-wife, and mistress-wife) and those who cultivate harmony (motherly-wife, sisterly-wife, friendly-wife, and handmaid-wife). The latter four represent virtuous archetypes, exemplifying care, affection, friendship, and devotion. The motherly-wife nurtures her husband as a mother does her child, safeguarding the family’s well-being; the sisterly-wife treats her partner with respectful affection, akin to that between siblings; the friendly-wife approaches her spouse as a trusted friend, fostering love and companionship; and the handmaid-wife exemplifies patience and obedience, maintaining peace within the family.
By recognizing and embracing these virtuous roles, family members, especially spouses, can mitigate conflicts and strengthen familial bonds. This study provides a detailed analysis of the Sujātā Sutta’s teachings, offering practical insights into the Buddhist approach to addressing familial discord. It highlights the importance of mutual understanding, ethical conduct, and emotional intelligence in resolving conflicts, contributing to personal and societal well-being. The findings underscore the relevance of Buddhist wisdom in contemporary family dynamics, presenting it as a timeless guide for cultivating harmony and stability.
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