Laywomen in Buddhism and their Future: The Example of Taiwan

Rong-Zhi Lin

Buddhist women form an extremely important force in the revitalization of Buddhism in Taiwan. However, despite the well-known achievements and highly esteemed status enjoyed by Taiwanese Buddhist bhiksunis globally today, the place of Taiwanese laywomen remains submissive and subordinate. Using Taiwan as an example, this paper explores the reasons of the relatively low status of laywomen in the Buddhist community. First, I cite examples of achievements and contributions by Buddhist laywomen in Taiwan. Second, I analyze the advantages and disadvantages of laywomens’ subordinate roles in the Buddhist community. Third, I discuss the need for (re-)educating Buddhist laywomen about their achievements and potential and increasing their self-awareness and self-reliance. Finally, I explore the role of Sakyadhita in achieving true equality between monastics and the laity.