Sri Lanka, March 24 -- Following are excerpts from an interview with Theravada Bhikkhu Ven. Ajahn Suchart Abhijato Maha Thera of Thailand. The Maha Thera is well known across the globe for his effective Dhamma teaching methods and meditation practice.

Q: Are there any references in the Buddha's teachings regarding whether daughters are born to parents who have violated the Fourth Precept?

A: I have not heard of it. Anyway, I cannot say whether he said so or not since there are so many Suttas in the Tipitaka. But it is not relevant. It is not really important. What is important to become enlightened is not whether you are a man or a woman, but whether you can follow the Noble Eightfold Path or not.

Q: Did the Buddha directly express any...