Question

Explain the Buddhist rules for the Bhikkhus and Bhikkhunis in the monasteries in ancient India.

Answer 1

In ancient India, Buddhist monasteries followed a detailed set of rules called the Vinaya Pitaka, which governed the conduct, duties, and responsibilities of the Bhikkhus (monks) and Bhikkhunis (nuns). These rules aimed to create a disciplined and ethical environment conducive to spiritual development and the path to enlightenment. Rules for Bhikkhus (Monks):

• Celibacy: Bhikkhus were required to live a celibate life. Sexual activity and marriage were strictly prohibited. The goal was to avoid distractions and focus solely on meditation and spiritual growth.
• Begging for Alms: Bhikkhus were not allowed to own property or accumulate wealth. They depended on the lay community for sustenance, which involved begging for alms daily. This practice promoted humility and emphasized reliance on others.
• Adherence to the Five Precepts: Bhikkhus followed the five basic precepts of Buddhism:
  • No killing or harming living beings
  • No stealing
  • No sexual misconduct
  • No false speech
  • No consumption of intoxicants
• Simplicity in Living: Bhikkhus were required to live in simplicity, owning only basic necessities such as robes, a begging bowl, and a meditation seat. Their lifestyle emphasized detachment from material possessions.
• Monastic Discipline: Bhikkhus adhered to a strict code of behavior, including maintaining ethical conduct, avoiding unnecessary social interactions, and following the rules of the monastery. They lived in communities, participated in daily rituals, and were responsible for teaching the lay community the teachings of the Buddha.

Rules for Bhikkhunis (Nuns):

• Celibacy and Modesty: Like Bhikkhus, Bhikkhunis were required to remain celibate and avoid any form of sexual misconduct. They lived lives of simplicity, detachment, and spiritual discipline.
• Respect for Bhikkhus: The Bhikkhuni Sangha (community of nuns) had to show reverence towards Bhikkhus (monks). Bhikkhus held higher status within the early Buddhist monastic structure, and nuns were expected to adhere to this hierarchy.
• Alms and Simple Living: Bhikkhunis followed the same practice of begging for alms as Bhikkhus, emphasizing their dependence on the lay community. They lived in monasteries with other nuns, engaging in communal practices such as meditation, prayer, and study.
• Adherence to the Eight Garudhammas: The Bhikkhuni Sangha followed the Garudhammas, a set of eight rules that were specific to nuns. These rules, among other things, required nuns to seek permission from a Bhikkhu (monk) for important decisions, ensuring the continued authority of the Bhikkhu Sangha.
• Role in Teaching and Spiritual Growth: While Bhikkhunis were not always seen as equals to Bhikkhus in the early tradition, they were still deeply engaged in meditation, study, and teaching. Many nuns played vital roles in spreading Buddhism, particularly among women, and participated in the spiritual and intellectual life of the community.

Conclusion:
Both Bhikkhus and Bhikkhunis followed strict codes of conduct that focused on celibacy, simplicity, and spiritual development. These rules ensured a life of discipline, detachment, and meditation, which were key aspects of Buddhist practice. Despite the hierarchical structure of the early monastic system, both male and female monks contributed significantly to the growth of Buddhism in ancient India.