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Entry: Bhikshuni

Chinese char: ¤ñ¥C¥§

Explanation:

Bhikshuni is a Sanskrit term that designates a Buddhist nun. It is the feminine form of Bhikshu (see entry).
The Buddha made the revolutionary move of establishing an organization, the bhiksuni-sangha, for women who wanted to devote themselves exclusively to the Dharma. In doing so he recognized the inherent spiritual worthiness of women and indicated that they too could become enlightened. Later, as recorded in the Dharma Flower Sutra, the Buddha predicted that particular Bhikshunis would become Buddhas.

Pinyin: bi qiu ni

Sanskrit: bhiksuni

Pali: bhikkhuni

Alternative: Buddhist nun, female mendicant, almswoman

See Also: Bhikshu, Sangha, moral precepts

BTTS Ref: see references for Bhikshu

Last Updated: 12/26/2001 5:20:04 AM EST

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