Bhikkhuni ordination movement

Definition

The bhikkhuni ordination movement is a contemporary effort to establish full monastic ordination for women in the Buddhist tradition, particularly within Theravada Buddhism. This movement seeks to revive the bhikkhuni lineage that has been largely absent in many regions, advocating for gender equality within the monastic community and promoting the inclusion of women as fully ordained monks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The bhikkhuni ordination movement gained momentum in the late 20th century, with efforts spearheaded by various Buddhist nuns and supportive monks advocating for women's rights within the tradition.
2. In 2009, the first fully ordained Theravada bhikkhunis in modern times were recognized when a ceremony took place in Australia, marking a significant milestone for the movement.
3. Many countries have faced opposition to the bhikkhuni ordination movement, often based on traditional views that restrict women's roles within the monastic community.
4. Supporters argue that reviving the bhikkhuni lineage helps address issues of gender inequality and allows women to engage more fully in spiritual practice and leadership.
5. The movement has sparked discussions and reforms within various Buddhist communities worldwide, leading to diverse responses ranging from acceptance to outright rejection.

Review Questions

• How does the bhikkhuni ordination movement challenge traditional views of gender roles within Buddhism?
  • The bhikkhuni ordination movement challenges traditional views by advocating for women's right to full ordination as monks, which historically has been denied in many Buddhist traditions. By seeking to revive the bhikkhuni lineage, supporters argue that it promotes gender equality and enables women to have equal access to spiritual practice and monastic leadership. This movement not only empowers women but also prompts broader discussions about inclusivity and reform within Buddhist communities.
• Evaluate the impact of modern bhikkhuni ordination ceremonies on traditional Theravada Buddhist communities.
  • Modern bhikkhuni ordination ceremonies have had a mixed impact on traditional Theravada Buddhist communities. In some areas, these ceremonies have fostered acceptance and support for female monasticism, leading to increased visibility of women in spiritual roles. However, they have also faced resistance from conservative factions that uphold traditional interpretations of the Vinaya. This dynamic has led to varying degrees of reform and adaptation among different communities, highlighting ongoing debates about gender roles within Buddhism.
• Synthesize how the global response to the bhikkhuni ordination movement reflects broader societal shifts regarding gender equality.
  • The global response to the bhikkhuni ordination movement illustrates a significant shift towards gender equality across many societies. As movements advocating for women's rights gain momentum worldwide, this resonates within Buddhist communities where traditional practices are being re-examined. The growing support for female ordination highlights an alignment between contemporary social values and religious practices, demonstrating that spiritual traditions can evolve alongside societal changes. This synthesis indicates a transformative moment in Buddhism where gender inclusivity is increasingly embraced as essential to its future relevance.

Related terms

bhikkhu:

A bhikkhu is a fully ordained male monk in Buddhism, adhering to the Vinaya, the monastic code of conduct.

Theravada Buddhism:

Theravada Buddhism is one of the oldest forms of Buddhism, prevalent in countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar, emphasizing the original teachings of the Buddha.

Vinaya:

The Vinaya is the regulatory framework for the monastic community in Buddhism, outlining rules and guidelines for monks and nuns.