Network of Thai Bhikkhuni Sangha (Theravada)
Founded July 9,2013
Dr.Chatsumarn Kabilsingh (Ven.Dhammananda) was the first Thai woman to be ordained in Theravada in 2001, and full ordination in 2003. She took the lineage from Sri Lanka and since then it has been 14 years. Now there are more than 70 bhikkhunis in Thailand spread out in at least 20 provinces, i.e. Nakhonpathom (central), Chiangmai, Tak (north), Yasothorn, Sakolnakhon (North East), Ssongkhla (South).
The ordination mostly taken from Sri Lanka, some are very strict in the observance of Vinaya, some not so strict and some do not have training.
At the same time we witness also many bhikkhunis and samaneris who are serious in their practice and further their studies both in dhamma and vinaya.
Wat Songdhammakalyani Bhikkhuni Arama has been in existence some 53 years ago, Ven.Dhammananda, being the first Theravadin bhikkhuni in Thailand invited Thai bhikkhunis to come together under this network on July 9,2013 with the purpose of supporting each other so that the new bud of Thai bhikkhunis can follow the vinaya properly by supporting each other in the best way they can.
Members of the Network meet regularly three times a year. Last time they met in Koh Yoh, Songkhla. They have a program to visit each other, learning about each other to be able to support of each other.
For membership write to the Network at 195 Petkasem Hwy, Muang Dist, Nakhonpathom 73000 Thailand. Or call 034 258 270 for more information.
Petition for Bhikkhuni sangha in Thailand
Apart from the network of Thai Bhikkhunis, we are also supported by the International Network of Engaged Buddhists (INEB). If you would like to show your kind support of their petition on https://www.change.org to formally establish the bhikkhuni sangha in Thailand, it is highly appreciated.
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