The Documentary Podcast
Heart and Soul: Becoming a Buddhist Bhikshuni in Bhutan
Feb 28, 2025
Emma Slade, also known as Lopen Ani Pema Deki, is a British Buddhist and the first Western woman fully ordained as a bhikshuni in Bhutan. She shares her incredible journey, detailing her transformation from a life in England to embracing Buddhism in Bhutan after a life-altering trauma. The discussion highlights the historic ordination of 144 women, the emotional resonance of the ceremony, and the empowerment of female monastics through improved living conditions and education. Emma's charity work for children with special needs also sheds light on her mission to support marginalized communities.
26:28
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Quick takeaways
- The 2022 ordination of 144 women in Bhutan marks a historic moment for gender equality in Buddhism, empowering female monastics alongside their male counterparts.
- Emma Slade's journey from a traumatic experience to becoming the first Western bhikshuni in Bhutan illustrates the transformative power of faith and commitment to societal change.
Deep dives
Historic Ordination of Nuns in Bhutan
For the first time in centuries, Buddhist nuns in Bhutan have the opportunity to receive full ordination, achieving parity with their monk counterparts. A landmark ceremony took place in 2022, where 144 women were ordained as bhikshunis, overcoming a longstanding debate on female ordination in Vajrayana Buddhism. This momentous event was facilitated by a cohort of senior monks, allowing these nuns to finally reach the same status as male monks. The ceremony was attended by significant figures such as the Queen Mother of Bhutan and the Prime Minister, highlighting its importance in not just religious, but also cultural terms.
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