Choosing Simplicity: A Commentary on the Bhikshuni Pratimoksha

by Venerable Bhikshuni Wu Yin, Thubten Chodron (Editor)

Choosing Simplicity discusses the precepts and lifestyle of fully ordained nuns within the Buddhist tradition. The ordination vows act as guidelines to promote harmony both within the individual and within the community by regulating and thereby simplifying one's relationships to other sangha members and laypeople, as well as to the needs of daily life. Observing these precepts and practicing the Buddhadharma brings incredible benefit to oneself and others. Since the nuns' precepts include those for monks and have additional rules for nuns, this book is useful for anyone interested in monastic life. As a record of women's struggle not only to achieve a life of self-discipline, but also to create harmonious independent religious communities of women, Choosing Simplicity is a pioneering work.

Genres: Buddhism

344 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Marsha Altman · Rating 4 out of 5]

An illuminating commentary on the Dharmaguptaka vinaya that explains it in simple terms, mostly in relation to how nuns should live.