Abstract: The Need to look at the popular interpretations of the Tripitaka (Theravada context)

by Bhikkhuni Dhammananda (Prof. em. Dr Chatsumarn Kabilsingh)

In this paper the author attempts to reread various passages from the Tripitaka which seems to have worked against the reintroduction of the bhikkhuni ordination in contemporary Buddhism. The paper will take up the meaning of being Theravada and how serious are the Theravadins in the present day to follow the spirit of Theravada.

The obstacles to ordination of bhikkhunis are mostly cultural and patriarchal, Reading  between the lines of the text, what is the true message of the Buddha. Before the Buddha passed away he suggested that we take both Dharma and Vinaya as our guideline. But the problems regarding ordination issue, it seems that the sangha tend to insist on the vinaya and also the words of the Vinaya not the spirit.  The vinaya will be guided best when its coupled with Dharma.

The paper will also argue in support of  the Mulasarvastivada sangha to consider starting the bhikkhuni sangha by the Theravada  bhikkhuni sangha from Sri lank and the assistance of the bhikkhu sangha of Mulasarvastivada. In this way the Tibetan bhikkhuni sangha can follow the Mulasarvastivada Vinaya received from the Mulasarvastivada sangha.

Prof. Dr Chatsumarn Kabilsingh spent 30 years teaching at McMaster University,Canada and Thammasat University, Thailand.

She was among 1000 women who were nominated  for Nobel Prize in 2005, recognized by the UN as an Outstanding Buddhist Women, 2004, committee for  Niwano Peace Award 2002-2006.

Co-founder of Sakyadhita International Buddhist Association, 1987, President of Sakyadhita 1991-2005. Editor of Yasodhara (Newsletter on International Buddhist women’s Activities) 1987 up to present.

In 2001 She received ordination in Sri Lanka in 2001. Now abbot of Songdhammakalyani Monastery, the only monastery for bhikkhunis in Thailand. She is also the first Theravada bhikkhuni in Thailand.