BUDDHIST VIEWS ON THE ROLE AND DUTIES OF WOMEN IN CURRENT THAI SOCIETY

Abstract

The Roles and Responsibilities of Women in Buddhism within Contemporary Thai SocietyIn contemporary Thai society, there has been a continuous effort to elevate the status of women. This includes revisions to laws related to women and the establishment of various groups and associations dedicated to addressing women's issues and improving their status. These organizations provide counseling, advice, and support to women in distress. A significant and controversial issue is the ordination of Buddhist nuns in Thailand. While many Thai women have a deep faith in Buddhism and have chosen to become nuns, they have not received official recognition from the Sangha (monastic community) or the law. Various parties have proposed amendments to include a definition of "other monastic communities" to encompass the Sri Lankan Bhikkhuni lineage, thereby providing legal status to Buddhist nuns in official matters. However, some groups disagree with this proposal and suggest that ordination should be based solely on the Dharma and Vinaya (Buddhist teachings and monastic discipline), arguing that seeking recognition from the Sangha contradicts the spirit of these teachings. Others advocate for legal recognition through the Sangha Act. Contemporary Thai women have increasingly taken on roles and gained recognition in society on par with men. Moreover, Thai women have fought for the right to become Buddhist nuns based on human rights, feminism, and constitutional rights and freedoms. Nevertheless, legal issues, traditional customs, and the lack of acceptance within the monastic community continue to pose challenges to the ordination of Buddhist nuns, particularly regarding adherence to the Theravada Buddhist Vinaya.