Women in Buddhism: Questions & Answers

Preface

In 1983 I was invited to attend an international conference on “Women, Religions, and Social Changes” at Harvard University, U.S.A. At this conference I was given a specific task to write a paper on “The Future of the Bhikkhuni Sangha in Thailand.” Even after years of involvement and commitment on the ordination issue for Buddhist women, still I had not envisioned that changes and channels would be open for women this soon.

To express my appreciation for the upcoming bhikkhuni ordination in Bodh Gaya, India, Febuary 15-22, 1998, I am honoured to present to you this booklet. I hope it will provide you with some answers to questions often asked about women and the ordination issue and others.

I am grateful to Fo Kuang Shan for making this ordination possible. Significantly, the ordination will be given in Bodh Gaya, a place of enlightenment — enlightenment for both men and women.

Prof. Martin Perenchio offered valuable assistance to provide English improvement to the original manuscript. I am thankful to him and to everyone involved in the production of this booklet.

Chatsumarn Kabilsingh

Home of Peace and Love
December 5th, 1997