puttana

Puttana is a term used in the Pali Canon, the sacred scriptures of Theravada Buddhism, to refer to a woman who has renounced the household life and entered the monastic order. The term is derived from the Sanskrit word "putri," meaning daughter, and is used to denote a female monastic. In the Pali Canon, puttanas are described as individuals who have given up their family responsibilities and have dedicated themselves to the practice of Buddhism.

The life of a puttana is governed by a set of rules known as the Vinaya, which outlines the ethical conduct and disciplinary practices that monks and nuns must follow. These rules include abstaining from sexual activity, not owning property, and adhering to a strict code of silence. Puttanas are expected to live in a communal setting, such as a nunnery, and are responsible for maintaining the monastery's discipline and providing support to other members of the community.

In the Pali Canon, puttanas are often depicted as individuals who have achieved a high level of spiritual development and wisdom. They are seen as role models for women who wish to live a life of devotion and self-discipline. The term puttana is also used in some contexts to refer to a woman who has renounced the household life but has not yet entered the monastic order, although this usage is less common.

The concept of puttanas is an important part of the Buddhist tradition, particularly in Theravada Buddhism, where the monastic community plays a central role in the practice and dissemination of the Dhamma. The life of a puttana is seen as a path to liberation from the cycle of rebirth and the attainment of nirvana, the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice.