Empowering Equanimity: Supporting Buddhist Nuns in Myanmar

In our recent series of donation activities and events, we have had the privilege of receiving support from compassionate donors deeply rooted in meditation practices. These dedicated individuals are not only champions of the Dhamma but also staunch advocates for gender equality. Today, we wish to illuminate the invaluable role that Buddhist nuns play in Myanmar, as well as the challenges they bravely confront.

It should be stated up front that, tragically, the religious hierarchy in Myanmar erects many obstacles on the road to education, and a nun’s many mandatory chores at a monastery significantly lessen their time for formal practice. That said, Buddhist nuns in Myanmar nonetheless occupy a unique and profound place in the monastic community and community-at-large. Despite facing various obstacles and sometimes encountering a lack of recognition from some members of the laity, these resilient nuns embody the teachings of the Buddha with unwavering dedication and boundless compassion. Moreover, they make substantial contributions in critical areas, such as healthcare and education in their localities.

Within the typical, Burmese, monastic landscape, nuns shoulder a multitude of practical responsibilities, including cooking, cleaning, and running errands. This selfless service allows the monks to devote their time to meditation and studies. Despite the fact that the distribution of tasks may not appear equal, the ceaseless efforts and unshakable determination of these nuns should never be underestimated. They are the lifeblood of the monastery, offering indispensable support and serving as wellsprings of inspiration for all who cross their path.

In these uncertain times, organizations like Better Burma play an instrumental role in securing the well-being and continuity of Buddhist nuns in Myanmar, who now face a heightened scarcity of resources. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our donors who have played a pivotal role in positively impacting the lives of the nun communities we support.

And this is why we remain steadfast in our commitment to gender equality within the realm of support for monastics. We want to underscore that when donors designate their contributions for monastic causes, we always make sure that this includes the invaluable nuns who are the lifeblood of Myanmar's spiritual and humanitarian endeavors. By ensuring that our donations encompass both monks and nuns, we stand together in promoting a more equitable and inclusive approach to sustaining the Dhamma and fostering a brighter future for all. It is through this collective effort that we empower and uplift the unsung heroes of Myanmar's spiritual landscape, the compassionate and dedicated nuns who inspire us all.