Lzh Mu Bi Vb Pc 116Ordaining Untrained Candidate

Explanation of the Asikkhita-sikkhamānā Sutta

On Ordaining One Who Has Not Been Trained

Background

This regulation appears in the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda tradition, specifically in the Pātimokkha, the table of disciplinary rules. It is one of the basic rules concerning the disciplinary status of women who go forth. In the context of early Buddhism, when the Buddha permitted women to go forth as bhikkhunīs, a system of examination and training was established to ensure that candidates understood the basic prohibitions before they were formally ordained.

A sikkhamānā, a female trainee, is an intermediate status: women who have gone forth but have not yet received full bhikkhunī ordination. They must observe ten principles (dasasīla) and be trained in the necessary skills of practice. This period usually lasts two years, during which the trainee studies discipline, meditation, and wisdom.

The rule concerning the “asikkhita-sikkhamānā,” a sikkhamānā who has not been trained, was recorded to protect the integrity of the Sangha and to ensure that only those who are truly ready are received into the formal monastic community.

Main Content

This regulation stipulates that upasampadā, full ordination, is not to be given to a sikkhamānā if she has not completed full training. “Asikkhita” means “untrained” or “not sufficiently skilled,” while “sikkhamānā” refers to those who are in the training stage.

The conditions for a sikkhamānā to be considered “trained” include: having learned the principal prohibitions, being able to govern her own conduct, understanding offenses and their consequences, and showing sincerity in the practice of the Dharma. Those responsible for training, the ācariya or upajjhāya, must confirm that the candidate is ready before the Sangha conducts the formal upasampadā ceremony.