Understanding the Tripitaka and Sangha Structure

The question asks about the specific division of the Buddhist sacred texts, known as the Tripitaka, that provides information regarding the structure of the Sangha, particularly concerning separate branches for men (monks) and women (nuns).

The Tripitaka, meaning "Three Baskets," is the traditional collection of Buddhist scriptures. It is divided into three main parts or "Pitakas." These three parts cover different aspects of the Buddha's teachings and the monastic life. Understanding the role of each Pitaka is crucial to answering this question about the Sangha and its structure.

Divisions of the Tripitaka

The three main divisions of the Tripitaka are:

• Sutta Pitaka: This contains the discourses or sermons delivered by the Buddha and sometimes his close disciples. It covers various aspects of Buddhist doctrine and practice.
• Vinaya Pitaka: This contains the rules and regulations for the monastic community (Sangha). It details the disciplinary code, procedures, and organization of the monastic life for both monks (Bhikkhus) and nuns (Bhikkhunis).
• Abhidhamma Pitaka: This contains philosophical and psychological analysis and systematization of the teachings presented in the Sutta Pitaka. It delves into the deeper aspects of reality and consciousness.

Focusing on the Vinaya Pitaka and Sangha Rules

As mentioned, the Vinaya Pitaka is specifically dedicated to the monastic discipline and the organization of the Sangha. It lays down the rules of conduct, procedures for ordination, and guidelines for community life. This Pitaka outlines how the monastic community should function.

Crucially, the Vinaya Pitaka includes separate sets of rules and regulations for monks (Bhikkhus) and nuns (Bhikkhunis). It describes the establishment of the order of nuns (Bhikkhunis) and the specific rules that govern their community, which were distinct from those for monks. This indicates the presence of separate branches or communities within the overall Sangha structure as detailed in the Vinaya Pitaka.

Therefore, the information about the organization of the Sangha, including the existence and rules for separate branches for men and women, is primarily found within the Vinaya Pitaka. The other Pitakas, the Sutta Pitaka and Abhidhamma Pitaka, focus on doctrine and philosophy, not monastic rules and organization.

Conclusion

Based on the contents of the three parts of the Tripitaka, the one that details the rules and structure of the Sangha, including separate branches for men and women, is the Vinaya Pitaka.