Buddhism and Rights for Women

            "Some women are indeed better (than men). Bring her up, O Lord of men " (buddhistvihara.com) Espoused by Siddhartha Gautama, Buddha, the resulting belief system, Buddhism, represented a step forward for the status of women in Indian Society. To understand the advances for women, a brief overview of the rights of females prior to Buddhism, the teachings of Buddha, and historical examples of enlightened women all focus to understand how the status of Indian women progressed.
             Prior to Buddhism in the Indian culture, women were considered significantly inferior to men physically, and mentally as well as deemed a possession. Occupied continually with domestic chores and child raising duties, women were considered sinful if not kept busy. Ultimately, a woman's occupation was to produce a male heir and if not, multiple wives could replace her or she could be forced out of her home. In terms of religious duties, she could not worship alone and only could "reach heaven through absolute obedience to her husband." (buddhanet.net).
             What did Buddhism teach that advanced the status of women in Indian Society? Both sexes were considered equal and neither was inferior to the other. In addition to the consideration of both men and women equal, in society and culture, each had important contributions to offer. As a wife and mother, Buddhism taught that the woman was not subservient to her husband but that these roles were essential to helping the family be successful. Fathers, too, were taught they had equal responsibility in raising the children with the same level of dedication expected. Not only were wives and husbands to be considered friends and partners, but that each sex was responsible for individual actions.
             In addition to child rearing expectations, Indian women, following the Buddha, were considered a helpmate in regards to her husband's business or trade needs.