e credit to their abilities andcapabilities. He truly paved the way for women to lead a full religious life. This implied that theywere equally able to develop and purify their minds and realize the bliss of Nibbana as well asmen. This fact is amply proven by the testimonies of the Theris (Nuns) during the Buddha's time. The teachings of the Buddha did a great deal to wipe off numerous superstitious beliefs andmeaningless rites and rituals - which also included sacrifices - from the minds of many people.When the Buddha revealed the true nature of life and death, and explained the natural phenomenawhich govern the universe to these people, they began to understand. This subsequently arrestedand corrected the prevailing social injustices and prejudices. Thus it enabled women to lead theirown way of life. Although the Buddha had elevated the status off women socially, He also pointed out the socialand psychological differences that exist between men and women. This was shown in the mannerin which He was realistic in His observations. His advice, given from time ~ to time, seen in thelight of His observations was j practical. These many instances were clearly depicted in theAnguttara Nikaya and Samyatta Nikaya. It was mentioned that a man's duty is his unending questfor knowledge. He should improve and stabilize his skills and craftsmanship, and be dedicated tohis work. He must also be able to find the means to maintain and sustain | his family. On the otherhand, it was also stated that it was the woman's duty to look after her home and her husband. The Anguttara Nikaya contains valuable advice which the Buddha had given to young girls priorto their marriage. Foreseeing the difficulties that will arise with the new in-laws, the Buddhaadvised the girls to give every respect to their parents-in-law, serving them as lovingly as theywere their own parents. They were also requested to honor and respect their husband's | relativesand friends so t...
