Master Sheng Yen; gender; gender equality; eight items of respect
摘要
In this paper I discuss Master Shengyan’s (Shengyen) views on gender and gender equality. In Shengyan’s written works he makes a point of emphasizing that Buddhism exhibits gender equality in such areas as monastic discipline and social relations. The two areas I focus on in this paper are monastic practice and the relative status of men and women. In terms of monastic practice, in his interpretation of the “eight items of respect” Shengyan emphasizes the principles of basic equality and mutual respect, rather than power struggles between monks and nuns. In terms of the relative status of men and women, he argues that the common misconception of gender inequality in Buddhism stems from adhering to a limited perspective. Thus, by using a broad-based perspective to correct widespread misconceptions, Shengyan’s teachings on gender equality in Buddhism can serve as an informed basis for engaging in contemporary and future discussions on gender equality.
