Sisters in solitude

Sisters in solitude

By Karma Lekshe Tsomo Bhikṣuṇī

Book Description

Sisters in Solitude opens a window into one of history's most significant yet overlooked spiritual traditions: the ethical framework that guided Buddhist nuns across centuries and cultures. Author Karma Lekshe Tsomo Bhikṣuṇī presents the first English translations of ancient monastic codes that shaped the daily lives of ordained women in Buddhist communities.

Drawing from two major Buddhist schools—the Dharmagupta tradition preserved in Chinese texts and the Mulasarvastivada school maintained in Tibetan sources—this scholarly work reveals how women navigated their spiritual paths within structured religious communities. The book examines the Bhiksuni Pratimoksa Sutras, sacred texts that established moral guidelines specifically designed for women seeking enlightenment through monastic life.

For contemporary readers exploring spiritual discipline and ethical living, this work offers profound insights into how ancient communities balanced individual growth with collective harmony. The moral precepts and daily conduct codes presented here demonstrate timeless principles of mindful living that transcend cultural boundaries.

More than a historical document, Sisters in Solitude serves as a bridge connecting modern spiritual seekers with the wisdom of women who dedicated their lives to contemplative practice. These translated texts illuminate universal themes of commitment, community, and the pursuit of inner transformation that continue to resonate with anyone seeking deeper meaning through disciplined spiritual practice.

Who Is This For?

📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~6 hours)

🕉️ Tradition: Buddhism

📄 Length: 198 pages

What You'll Discover

  • ✓ Explore Tripiṭaka
  • ✓ Explore Buddhist women
  • ✓ Explore Criticism, interpretation
  • ✓ Explore Monasticism and religious orders for women, Buddhist
  • ✓ Explore Buddhist Monasticism and religious orders for women
  • ✓ Explore Rules
  • ✓ Explore Monasticism and religious orders, rules

Topics Covered

Tripiṭaka Buddhist women Criticism, interpretation Monasticism and religious orders for women, Buddhist Buddhist Monasticism and religious orders for women Rules Monasticism and religious orders, rules

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