Question

Read the following source and answer the questions that follow: 

The Therigatha This unique Buddhist text, part of the Sutta Pitaka, is a collection of verses composed by bhikkhunis. It provides insight into women's social and spiritual experiences. Punna, a dasi or slave woman, went to the river each morning to fetch water for her master's household. There she would daily see a Brahmana performing bathing rituals. One morning she spoke to him. The following are verses composed by Punna, recording her conversation with the Brahmana : I am a water carrier: Even in the cold I have always gone down to the water frightened of punishment Or the angry words of high class women. So what are you afraid of Brahmana, That makes you go down to the water (Though) your limbs shake with the bitter cold? The Brahmana replied: I am doing good to prevent evil; anyone young or old who has done something bad is freed by washing in water. Punna said: Whoever told you You are freed from evil by washing in the water?… In that case all the frogs and turtles Would go to heaven, and so would the water snakes and crocodiles! (Instead) Don’t do that thing, the fear of which leads you to the water. Stop now Brahmana! Save your skin from the cold …

1. How does the text provide insight into Punna's spiritual experience?
2. How is Purina reflected as an awakened soul?
3. Which of the teachings to Buddha are evident in the composition?

Answer 1

1. The text gives an understanding of Punna's spiritual journey. She emphasised that finding eternal happiness was the aim of spirituality. She was very concerned about soul purity.
2. Punna's demonstration of logical reasoning during her conversation with the Brahmin can be considered evidence of an awakened soul. She challenged Brahmin's irrational belief that taking a cold shower would wash away his sins. Punna remarked that all aquatic animals would have always gone to heaven if this were the case.
3. Buddha criticised the caste system and rituals. Buddha counselled seeking spiritual experiences to achieve enlightenment. Traditions were less critical than behaviour and ideals.