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How and Why Did the Women in Ancient India Become Buddhist Nuns?

Introduction

Ancient Indian women commonly used to become nuns. Sociologists of religion have been more concerned with the question of what motivates people to form a new sect or launch a new movement and somewhat less with the question of motivation for monasticism. Before getting into the details of how and why ancient Indian women become nuns, let us study how ancient Indian women were. The position of women was not identical throughout the early period. Mostly women could not lead a lavish life, and she lived under the auspices of her parents, her husband or her sons. An ancient Indian sculpture confirmed that women are shown with their husbands in a number of religious and secular functions. The women also took an active part in the religious activities, though they could not officiate as priests. In the literary sphere also the women made a valuable contribution. In short it can be said that though the freedom of the women was considerably restricted, it was not entirely denied to them. The Sati system was probably also in vogue. Ancient Indian women belief in the religion was very strong, and thought that if they become nuns, they will promptly get heaven. Most of the Indian women, who belong to Therigatha, usually become nuns. Now the question arises that what attracts them to become a nun?

Discussion

Ancient Indian women belonging to Therigatha and Paramatthadipani is the one who usually become nuns. Buddha himself once suggested that women should seek heaven by the Buddhist doctrine. This can be done only if they become nuns. This is one of the reasons of ancient Indian women of becoming a nun. They want to seek heaven, and Buddhism isolates the individual from worldly matters. They believe ...