Depictions of Caste and Gender Relations in the Vinaya Pitaka and the Digha Nikaya

This book, Depictions of Caste and Gender Relations in the Vinaya Pitaka and Digha Nikaya, examines the ways in which issues of caste and gender are represented in the Vinaya Pitaka and the Digha Nikaya. The Vinaya Pitaka consists of rules of discipline for bhikkhus and bhikkhunis of the Sangha, while the Digha Nikaya (a part of the Sutta Pitaka, the second division of the Tripitaka) comprises more than 10,000 suttas (discourses) delivered by the Buddha and his close disciples.

The book analyses the concept of varna divisions in society and their acceptance or rejection within the fold of Buddhism. It explores the Brahmanas as a social group, examining their religious inclinations, beliefs, practices, socio-economic background, their attitudes towards other social groups, and the attitudes of other groups towards them. In addition, the book observes instances where some Brahmanas diverged from established norms.

Another important aspect of the study is the exploration of the Kshatriyas within the social order, including their religious leanings, duties, affiliations, and patronage of religious institutions. It also discusses the attitudes of Kshatriyas towards Buddhists and the ways in which they were treated by the Buddha and his monastic community. Other social groups mentioned in the texts, besides the Brahmanas and Kshatriyas, are also examined in detail.

Finally, the book offers a detailed analysis of gender relations through various references to women in different roles, including bhikkhunis, queen consorts, laywomen, wives, mothers, daughters, and courtesans.