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UPPCS Prelims 2010

Sociology of early Buddhism

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The entry of women as a 'Bhikshuni' into the Buddhist Sangha was allowed by Gautam Buddha at-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept The creation of the Bhikkhuni Sangha (order of nuns) was a revolutionary step for women's spiritual rights in ancient India.

Explanation At Vaishali, the Buddha’s stepmother, Mahaprajapati Gautami, repeatedly requested entry into the order. Following the persistent mediation of the Buddha's disciple Ananda, the Buddha finally granted permission for women to be ordained.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option B is correct. Vaishali was the historical site of this pivotal expansion of the Sangha.
Logic 2: Mahaprajapati Gautami became the first female to be admitted, paving the way for thousands of other women to seek liberation.

Active Recall

Question

Who was the first woman to be admitted into the Buddhist Sangha?

Answer

Mahaprajapati Gautami, the Buddha's foster mother, who led a group of 500 women to Vaishali to request ordination.

Core Insight

The inclusion of women in the Sangha demonstrated Buddhism's initial potential for social egalitarianism, though it came with specific disciplinary conditions (Gurudharmas).

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