Buddhist Perspectives on Women: Social Constraints and Spiritual Equality

Abstract

This article aims to analyze Buddhist perspectives on women from various perspectives, including the Pali scriptures, etymology and Dhamma principles. It finds that While Buddhism contains passages that criticize women, it fundamentally recognizes the equality of men and women in terms of mind, morality, and wisdom. It believes that both genders are comprised of the five aggregates and are subject to the same three characteristics and the law of karma. Women can practice celibacy, attain enlightenment, and attain arahantship, just like men, as reflected in the 73 Therīvaṭi. Furthermore, etymological studies reveal that the Pali-Sanskrit terms "itthi" and "puriso" reflect social values and gender perspectives. Meanwhile, modern thought suggests the use of the term "human being" to convey gender equality. Buddhist perspectives on women are based on wisdom and morality, viewing women as human beings with equal potential to escape suffering and create a just and dharma-based society.