Information About

Bhikkhuni




A Bhikṣuṇī ( Sanskrit ) or '''Bhikkuṇī''' ( Pāli ) is a fully ordained Buddhist Nun .

The lineage of Buddhist nuns ( Bhikkhuni ) was originally provided for by the Buddha, and it spread widely in the Mahayana tradition. In Theravada tradition, many believe that lineage has been broken since the 11th Century . The official Ordination of Theravada nuns has declined in the time, therefore rendering the current incarnation 'untrue' or 'impure' in the eyes of the conservative Theravada Sangha .

In Indo-China Theravada tradition, many women continue to follow the spirit, if not the letter, of the bhikkhuni order as pious laywomen even though they are either never ordained or are considered “semi-ordained” since they are not recognized officially by the Sangha in the Theravada tradition, these women attempt to lead a life following the teachings of the Buddha. They observe 8-10 precepts and do not follow exactly the same codes as ordained Buddhist monks. They receive popular recognition for their role but not official endorsement.
Partly responsible for the movement is Voramai Kabilsingh , who received the eight precepts of the Thai female renunciant ( Mae Chi ) from Phra Pronmuni of Wat Bovoranives . Her example eventually caused a number of young women to follow her example, donning yellow robes, and found the first Thai Monastery for Buddhist women.

The traditional appearance of Theravada nuns is much like that of Monks , including a shaved head and either white or pink robes. Bhikkhuni orders enjoy a broad basis in Mahayana countries like Japan , Korea , Vietnam and Taiwan .