Thilashin

[1] Like the maechi of neighbouring Thailand and the dasa sil mata of Sri Lanka, thilashin occupy a position somewhere between that of an eight-precept lay follower and a fully ordained monastic.

Thilashins observe the ten precepts and can be recognized by their pink robes, shaven head, orange or brown shawl and metal alms bowl.

[2] The full bhikkhuni 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 thilashin the only option for women who wish to renounce in Burma.

There have been efforts by some thilashins to reinstate the bhikkhuni lineage, although there are serious reservations and legal obstacles from the government, monks and general populace.

However, in Myanmar, thilashins remain the only monastic option for women at this time and ordaining as a bhikkhuni is an offence punishable by imprisonment.