WOMEN IN BUDDHISM

• Historically speaking, Siddhartha allowed women to participate in the sangha although there were some stipulations. His outlook is very different when one considers the status of women in ancient India as being viewed as inferior to men. Considered at times belonging to the lowest caste, women’s principal role was to become faithful and devoted housewives subject to the whims of their husbands.
• In Buddhism, both sexes are seen as equally relevant in society as they share equal responsibilities in their family duties. Within the sangha, Siddhartha recognized the potential and value of the bhikkunis who serve also experts in teaching the dharma. These include Dhammadina, Khema, and Uppalavanna.