A
nun is a member of a religious community of women, typically one living under vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. She may have decided to dedicate her life to serving all other living beings, or she might be an
ascetic who voluntarily chose to leave
mainstream society and live her life in
prayer and contemplation in a
monastery or
convent. The term "nun" is applicable to
Catholics (eastern and western traditions),
Orthodox Christians,
Anglicans,
Lutherans,
Jains,
Buddhists,
Taoists,
Hindus and some other religious traditions.