Buddha is the one who made the statement, “if women were not admitted in the monasteries, Buddhism would have continued for a thousand years, but because this admission has been granted it would last only five hundred years.” This statement reflects the historical context and challenges faced by the Buddhist monastic community during Buddha's time.

Historical Context:
During Buddha's time, the practice of religion was predominantly male-dominated, and women had limited roles and opportunities for spiritual growth. However, Buddha recognized the potential of women and their ability to attain enlightenment. He believed that women could also achieve spiritual liberation and be an integral part of the monastic community.

Importance of Admitting Women:
Buddha's decision to admit women into the monasteries was significant for several reasons:

1. Equality: By allowing women to join the monastic community, Buddha emphasized the principle of equality and challenged the prevailing gender norms of his time. This decision paved the way for women to actively participate in religious practices and pursue spiritual enlightenment.

2. Spiritual Development: Buddha believed that women, just like men, could attain enlightenment and become enlightened beings. By admitting women, he provided them with the opportunity to devote themselves to the path of spiritual development and liberation.

3. Expansion of Buddhism: By including women in the monastic community, Buddha ensured the expansion and longevity of Buddhism. Women played a crucial role in spreading the teachings of Buddha and attracting more followers. Their active involvement helped in the growth and preservation of the Buddhist tradition.

Challenges and Limitations:
However, Buddha also anticipated certain challenges and limitations that would arise from admitting women into the monastic community. He predicted that these challenges could potentially impact the longevity of Buddhism:

1. Social Acceptance: Buddha recognized that societal biases and prejudices against women might create difficulties in their acceptance within the monastic community. This could lead to conflicts and hinder the smooth functioning of the monastic order.

2. Resistance to Change: Buddha foresaw that some traditionalists and conservative individuals might resist the inclusion of women in the monastic community. This resistance could create divisions and conflicts within Buddhism.

3. Institutional Stability: Buddha believed that the addition of women to the monastic community might introduce new dynamics and challenges that could impact the stability and sustainability of the institution. He predicted that these challenges could limit the longevity of Buddhism to five hundred years instead of a thousand.

In conclusion, Buddha's decision to admit women into the monasteries was a significant step towards gender equality and the expansion of Buddhism. However, he also recognized the challenges and limitations that this decision might pose, leading to his statement about the potential impact on the longevity of Buddhism.

बुद्ध