Dear Sayalay Dhammanandī,
My understanding is that the title "Therī" applies only to a bhikkhunī who
received full (upasampadā) ordination at least 10 years earlier. It's the
same for bhikkhus although the title "Thera" doesn't seem to be much in use.
I see it sometimes with the author's name in books on Dhamma and I think the
title "Mahāthera" is used for a bhikkhu of 20+ years standing.
At least this is my understanding since the 70s and I don't remember where I
read or heard about it. I'm aware that in recent times there has been a
revival of the Theravāda bhikkhunī order via a Taiwanese or Chinese lineage
since the original Theravāda one died out long ago. I think it has generated
some controversy as to its validity and acceptance.
Best wishes,
Jim
----- Original Message -----
From: "Sayalay Dhammanandi sayalaydhammanandi@... [palistudy]"
<palistudy@yahoogroups.com>
To: <palistudy@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: July 19, 2016 3:17 AM
Subject: [palistudy] Use of thera and therii
Dear friends,
What is the common usage of 'thera' and 'therii' in the context of Buddhist
ordained persons?
Especially with regards to nuns ordained in the Theravada tradition
observing the samanerii precepts like in Myanmar, is it prohibited for them
to use 'theri' after being ordained for more than 10 years?
There are those who say that 'thera' was restricted for use of bhikkhus, and
'therii' for bhikkhunis.
Please advise.
Thank you!
With metta Dhammanandi
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.