Early Monastic Buddhism v1.c19.s13.15

v1.c19.s13.15

The mode of life prescribed for them was substantially the same as that of the monks. The Pātimokkha rules, however, differed partially from those of the monks.¹ Most of the twenty-four restrictions that had to be observed in conferring ordination were common to the monks and nuns with a few meant specially for the nuns.² The formulae (*kammavācā*) for ordination, selection of *upajjhāya* and *ācariya*, prescription of *nissayas* are all identical with those of the monks. In the case of nuns, sanction for ordination had to be taken twice first from the bhikkhu sangha and then from the bhikkhunī sangha. It is interesting to note that in case a woman was unable to present herself before the Saṅgha for ordination on account of dangers on the way, she could send a messenger to the Saṅgha to seek ordination on behalf. Such ordination by proxy was allowed. There are a few special directions for such ordinations by proxy. There are also special provisions for conferring ordination on a woman with child, and rules for her mode of life after delivery. The nuns who had once left the order or joined a heretical teacher were refused readmission (x. 26).