The Venerable Dhammananda (Dhammananda Bhikkhuni)

Question 1

Which school of Buddhism are they a part of?

Answer 1

Theravada Buddhism

Question 2

Who was the first Thai woman to reach full ordination as a nun in Sri Lanka?

Answer 2

This was significant as traditionally, Thai opposed the idea of female nuns

Her ordination contributed to the revival of nuns in Thailand and the Theravada school of Buddhism.

Question 3

What is this person’s belief regarding female ordination in Buddhism?

Answer 3

Female ordination should be a right, not a privilege

Question 4

What does this person believe about gender roles in Buddhism?

Answer 4

Men and women should have the same rights, viewing them as equal

Question 5

What is the meaning of life according to this person’s belief system?

Answer 5

Being a part of the sangha and following her mother’s footsteps

Question 6

What is this person’s purpose in her Buddhist practice?

Answer 6

To teach the Buddha’s teachings and bring back female representation in Buddhism

Question 7

What is the extent of their influence as a Buddhist?

Answer 7

Worked for the re-establishment of the Theravada Bhikkhuni lineage

• Challenged Thai patriarchal transitions
• Advocated for women’s rights in the Buddhist Sangha
• Founded Songdhammakalyani Monastery, the first all-female monastery in Thailand

Question 8

What movement did her actions and ordination spark?

Answer 8

A movement among females seeking ordination in Thailand

Question 9

What notable event did this person participate in outside Buddhism?

Answer 9

Invited to speak at Harvard University about Buddhism

Question 10

What contributions has this person made to literature?

Answer 10

Wrote several books about Thai Buddhist women and their place in Thai society

Question 11

What initiative did this person start to promote Buddhist women’s activities?

Answer 11

Started publishing a Buddhist Newsletter about International activities on Buddhist women