Buddhism beyond gender

By Rita M. Gross

Book Description

In the realm of Buddhist practice, teachers often speak of transcending gender distinctions, emphasizing that all identities are ultimately empty and should not be grasped. Yet for many practitioners, this philosophical ideal collides with the very real experiences of gender-based discrimination and oppression in daily life. How do we reconcile these seemingly contradictory truths?

Rita M. Gross tackles this complex intersection where ancient wisdom meets contemporary social realities. She explores how gender identity functions within Buddhist communities and examines the historical evolution of these dynamics throughout Buddhism's development. Moving beyond theoretical discussions, Gross addresses the practical challenges that arise when spiritual teachings about non-attachment encounter the lived experiences of practitioners who face gender-based obstacles.

The exploration extends beyond gender alone, investigating how various forms of identity manifest in spiritual life and practice. Through careful analysis, Gross reveals the deeper patterns of suffering that emerge when we cling to any aspect of identity, whether gender-related or otherwise. Her work illuminates the gap between Buddhist ideals of non-attachment and the realities of practicing within communities where identity-based inequalities persist.

This examination offers practitioners a framework for understanding how to navigate the tension between spiritual transcendence and social justice, providing insights that extend to all forms of identity-based challenges in spiritual communities.