What are the best options for a trans person (MtF) who seeks to ordain?

Hi. I am trans, but I would like to ordain, if at all possible, even if as a samanera or bhikkhu (assuming I didn’t end up getting SRS or an orchiectomy, as I assume that would disqualify me in practice for both).

I am aware that my options are relatively limited, so I would like to ask what the monastics of this forum think that someone in my position should do. Should I remain as an anagarika long-term, try for samanera (as opposed to samaneri/bhikkhuni)? Or consider a tradition other than Theravada (and just try to find a sympathetic preceptor and a monastery without sensual distractions and where I have a decent amount of time to myself) even though my views/practices are staunchly EBT. I would like to at least follow the ten precepts, and I need the structure and accountability that monastic life provides such as regular confession.

Furthermore, what would the best country for this be? And do you know of any places in particular that could work?

One of my main concerns for any of these routes is getting access to regular HRT, which I need for mental stability and prevention of masculinization (e.g., more body and facial hair, balding, increased musculature).

Context: I have been on HRT for a few years now and I am planning some surgeries for the near future (not SRS at the moment) in order to alleviate my acute dysphoria.

11 Likes

Hello and welcome to the forum :rainbow:

It sounds like, as a trans feminine person, you might be better looking into options to ordain as a Samaneri and/or bhikkhuni. It sounds like far less suffering than trying to live in a body and identify that doesn’t fit. I know of potential opportunities in the US, Europe and Thailand. Understandably, these places generally like to keep quiet about their trans sangha members. If you feel comfortable, it might be worth starting to visit some bhikkhuni monasteries and getting to know the community.

Regarding accessing HRT, it would depend on your country of residence/citizenship as to what is available and at what cost. Healthcare systems vary greatly across the world. Let alone access to gender affirming care.

There have been some good past discussions on trans ordination on this forum, which might also be worth searching up.

:pink_heart::white_heart::light_blue_heart:

ETA: there is a list of generally LGBTQ friendly monasteries on the Rainbodhi website. Though it doesn’t cover Asia very well.

15 Likes

Hi, thanks so much for reaching out to us, we appreciate the trust. I hope you’re able to fulfill your aspiration!

You’re in good hands with Ven Pasanna. :folded_hands:

11 Likes

Thank you, Venerable, for the reply!

I am curious to hear more about Thailand/Asia. I was aware that there were potentially some opportunities in the US and Europe, but not in Asia.

2 Likes