New Books Network Vanessa R. Sasson, "The Gathering: A Story of the First Buddhist Women" (Equinox, 2023)
Feb 1, 2026
Vanessa R. Sasson, a professor of religious studies who retells early Buddhist lives, brings the first women seekers to vivid life. She explains her blend of scholarship and storytelling. Listeners hear why Vimala and others were chosen, how communal renunciation shaped their path, and the political risks and leadership involved in their request for ordination.
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Unexpected Nepal Journey Sparked Scholarship
- Vanessa R. Sasson described arriving in Nepal as a formative, unplanned experience that launched her academic path into Buddhism.
- She extended her stay repeatedly and then enrolled in graduate study after returning home.
Storytelling Reveals New Scholarly Angles
- Sasson calls her books a blend of research and storytelling, bridging academic scaffolding with creative narration.
- She argues that participating as a storyteller reveals dimensions missed by detached analysis.
The Book Continues Yashodara's Arc
- The Gathering continues the narrative left off in Sasson's Yashodara book, following women after the Buddha leaves the household.
- She felt compelled to tell the ordination request story because it completes that arc and resonates politically for women today.
