The Role of Women in Buddhism - 1010 Words

In many cultures, the roles of women vary reluctantly. While researching the many aspects of Buddhism, the religion is sometimes practiced differently and the roles of women differs. According to Experiencing World Religions, (Molloy, 127) Buddhism is one of the worlds oldest yet most significant religions thus far. It has influenced many cultures, originating from India and making its way to migrate throughout the country of Asia, and women have been involved since the very first day. In today’s society, although men are predominantly inferior over women, women are granted the same opportunities. Just like many other societies in other countries or many other religions there are discriminations and prejucial acts against women. Although, woman are offered the second class citizenship in many Buddhist traditions, a womans role is very important when helping maintain the religion resulting in mass population of worshipers , fulfilling the duties as caregivers and also wives to their husbands, and also providing any assistance if needed in the community. (Molloy, 127) When the Buddha first began the ‘enlightenment’ women were not allowed. Buddha’s reason for this was because of temptation, he believed that the monks would become distracted if women were allowed to join the Sangha. After a few attempts of petitioning, the Buddha allowed women to join, eventually allowing them to begin worshiping. 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