Lzh Mu Bi Pm Pc 119Ordaining Untrained Unmarried Girls

Scripture Commentary: On Ordaining Untrained Unmarried Women

Background

This scripture belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, in the Pātimokkha, the code of precepts. Its content concerns regulations related to ordaining female monastics, especially girls who have not been educated or trained in the rules of practice.

The founding period of the noble Sangha of the Buddha was a time when the requirements for ordination were not as strict as they later became. However, as the number of followers increased and problems arose in the monastic community, the Buddha established rules (sikkhāpada) to maintain discipline and morality. This scripture reflects the process of refining those rules in order to ensure that those entering the renunciant life are properly prepared.

The terms “asikkhita” (untrained) and “kumāribhūta” (unmarried girl) in the title show the Buddha’s concern for spiritual maturity and understanding of the precepts before formal ordination.

Main Content

The scripture states that women who wish to go forth must meet certain standards. Specifically, girls who are underage, untrained in the basic principles of the Buddha-Dharma, or not mentally prepared for a serious life of practice must not be ordained.

This regulation is not an arbitrary restriction, but a protective measure. If those who are not ready are ordained, they may easily become mentally distressed, unable to keep the precepts (sīla), and eventually cause harm to the monastic community. This rule emphasizes that going forth is a weighty decision requiring thorough preparation.

Before formal ordination, girls must pass through a long period of training, usually two years, during which they learn the rules of life, the Dharma of practice, and the Buddha’s basic teachings.