Lzh Sarv Bi Vb Pc 117Ordaining Trained Candidate Without Approval

Sutta Commentary: The Ordination of a Trained Candidate Without Approval

Background

This text belongs to the Vinaya Piṭaka of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, specifically the Bhikkhunī Vibhaṅga (Analysis of the Rules for Bhikkhunīs). In the course of developing the bhikkhunī community, the Buddha established a careful system of training in order to safeguard the purity of the Sangha and support the spiritual development of its female monastics.

According to the Theravāda tradition, the ordination of women cannot be carried out hastily or arbitrarily. Before formally becoming a bhikkhunī, a woman must pass through the sikkhamānā (trained candidate) stage lasting two years. This is a period of training to test one's resolve in practice, suitability for the celibate life, and adherence to the precepts.

This text addresses a specific situation: the case in which a sikkhamānā (trained candidate) is ordained as a bhikkhunī without formal approval from the Sangha (asammata). This constitutes a violation of the rules governing the solemn practice of the community.

Main Content

According to the regulations set forth in the Bhikkhunī Vinaya, the ordination of a trained candidate must follow a formal procedure. The bhikkhunī Sangha must convene to vote upon and grant approval (anumatī) before a trained candidate may formally receive full ordination (upasampadā) as a bhikkhunī.

If a trained candidate is ordained without the consent and approval of the Sangha, that ordination is considered invalid. Specifically, when the Sangha has not formally granted approval, the individual is not recognized as a fully ordained bhikkhunī, even though the outward ceremonies may have been performed.

The Bhikkhunī Vinaya prescribes that this constitutes a Pācittiya offense — an offense requiring confession and expiation. The bhikkhunīs who bear responsibility for guiding and overseeing the ordination process are subject to this rule.