The Role and Status of Women in Buddhism and Confucianism...

The role and status of women in any religion in the word is known to be controversial. In Buddhism and Confucianism, women are seen as unequal and some of their belief promotes gender inequality. As outsiders of both main Chinese religions, we wonder how women put up with the gender inequalities. Women go through with the inequalities because they respect their faith and believe deeply in the teachings of Buddha for Buddhism, and Confucius for Confucianism. Much research and also thought has been put together to obtain true status of women in these Chinese religions. Women in these religions are seen as vulnerable of the society, making the treatment of women seem much harsher. Women will always be treated differently than†¦show more content†¦The Buddha was probably concerned about what people would think if women have the same respect and status as men. Male body is sacred, higher and more important/superior than the female body, making the teachers and leaders of Buddhism to be only male monks (Khuankaew). It does not matter if the nun has been ordained for hundred years, they are still considered lower than a newly ordained child monk (Chodron). In Thailand and a few other Theravada Buddhist countries, women are not even allowed to sit beside and touch monks because they believe that women are temptations against the monk’s enlightenment. Women are also not allowed to enter some sacred sites (Khuankaew). These teachings have truly affected how women are viewed and treated. Major and minor decisions are controlled by their parents, husbands and in-laws making them vulnerable, and to be treated unfairly. There is little evidence as to the status of women in Japanese history. According to Chinese descriptions of the Japanese during the Common Era, men and women were equal in society. Although, as the history progressed, the status of women declined. The influence of Confucianism had a major effect on women because the influence of Confucianism meant women were subordinate to men (Lee). Women were treated as menials and slaves. When they were young, they were to obey their father; when they get married, they were to show fidelity andShow MoreRelatedGender Socialization and Gender Roles Essay1184 Words   |  5 PagesGender socialization and gender roles have always existed in society. When analyzing gender roles, they are not always equal or consistent when comparing cultures, however, the expectations of females and males are often times clearly defined with a little to no common area. The Japanese culture is an example of the defined gender roles that change over time. 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