Lzh Mi Bi Pm Pc 117Ordaining a Breastfeeding Woman

Explanation of the Sutta: Ordaining a Breastfeeding Woman (Pāyantī)

Background

The Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition records the rules of purity (Vinaya) that the Buddha prescribed for the monastic community. Among these rules, the Pāyantī Sutta, concerning a woman nursing a child, belongs to the category of the Pātimokkha, the most basic prohibitions for bhikkhunīs.

The background of this rule is connected with a practical issue: when a woman with a young nursing child wishes to go forth and become a nun, the Buddha and the elder monks had to consider the compassion of the Buddha Dharma together with the practical needs of the individual and of the monastic community. This rule reflects the wisdom and balance of early Buddhist Dharma and Vinaya in handling special cases.

Main Content

The sutta states that a woman who is breastfeeding should not be permitted to go forth and be reckoned as a bhikkhunī until her child no longer needs mother’s milk. This is not an absolute prohibition, but a temporary condition concerning going forth.

The reason behind the rule is clear: a mother who is nursing still has biological and psychological responsibilities toward her child. Neglecting the child in order to practice fully in the monastic community could harm both the child and the mother herself. Early Buddha Dharma does not encourage abandoning family responsibilities heedlessly, but instead emphasizes balance among the natural duties of human beings.

If a woman in this condition still insists on seeking going forth, her recognition as a bhikkhunī will not be acknowledged until the condition changes. This is a protective measure, not a punishment.

Practical Meaning

The Pāyantī rule contains a profound lesson about the understanding and flexibility of the Buddha Dharma. The Theravāda tradition does not regard going forth as a complete escape from the world, but as a path of practice undertaken with respect for natural duties.