Historic Celebration: Ordination of Bhikkhuni Arindama
First Theravada ordination in Spain
On June 25, 2025, a unique and historic moment took place for Buddhism in our country: the ordination of Bhikkhuni Arindama, the first Theravada ordination in Spain.
This ordination has profound historical and spiritual significance. In the Theravada tradition, the ordination of women as fully ordained nuns (bhikkhunis) has been very limited or nonexistent in many countries for centuries, due to interruptions in transmission and cultural barriers. Recovering and sustaining this line of female ordination not only restores to women a spiritual right that already existed in the time of the Buddha, but also enriches monastic and community life with diverse voices, experiences, and leadership.
The fact that this ordination has taken place in Spain for the first time represents a step toward equity within Buddhist practice, a recognition of the value and capacity of women to receive and transmit the teachings on equal terms. It is also an inspiration for future generations of practitioners who will see a path opened up that was previously unavailable.
(Spanish)
