Thilashin

during alms round in Yangon, Myanmar (Burma).

Young before alms round in Pyin Oo Lwin train station (Myanmar).

A (Burmese: သီလရှင်, pronounced [θìla̰ʃɪ̀ɰ̃], "possessor of morality", from Pali sīla) is a female renunciant in Burmese Buddhism; a Burmese Theravada Buddhist nun. They are not fully ordained nuns, as the full ordination is not legal for women in Burma (bhikkhuni), but are closer to sāmaṇerīs, 'novice nuns'. According to 2016 statistics published by the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, there were 60,390 in Myanmar (Burma).

Like the maechi of neighbouring Thailand and the dasa sil mata of Sri Lanka, occupy a position somewhere between that of an eight-precept lay follower and a fully ordained monastic. However, they are treated more favourably than , being able to receive training, practice meditation and sit for the same qualification examinations as the monks.

observe the ten precepts and can be recognized by their pink robes, shaven head, orange or brown shawl and metal alms bowl. would also go out on alms round on uposatha days and receive uncooked rice or money.

are addressed with the honorifics (Template:MYname, [sʰəjàlé], 'little teacher') and (Template:MYname, [dɔ̀]). These are attached to the Buddhist name given.

often reside in either separate quarters or in segregated kyaung (temple-monasteries). They do not have to look after the monks, but may help cook if required. Although ranked lower than the monks, they are not subservient to them, but form their own communities.

Ordination

Main article: Ordination of women in Buddhism

are not fully ordained members of the Sangha. The full lineage of Theravada Buddhism died out, being preserved only in the Mahayana tradition, and for various technical and social reasons was therefore absent, leaving the lay practice of living as a the only option for women who wish to renounce in Burma. As a result, in many respects the lifestyle of resembles that of an ordained , even to the extent of making a daily alms-round.

There have been efforts by some to reinstate the lineage, although there are serious reservations and legal obstacles from the government, monks and general populace. A new Theravada sangha was first convened in 1996, and since then many more have taken the full vows. However, in Myanmar, remain the only monastic option for women at this time and ordaining as a is an offence punishable by imprisonment.

See also

• Donchee