Theravada

Definition

Theravada is one of the oldest surviving branches of Buddhism, often referred to as 'The School of the Elders.' This tradition emphasizes the original teachings of the Buddha as recorded in the Pali Canon and focuses on individual enlightenment through meditation and ethical living. Theravada is primarily practiced in countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia, and it places a strong emphasis on monastic life and the role of monks as spiritual guides.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Theravada Buddhism is known for its strict adherence to the original teachings of the Buddha and emphasizes personal meditation and ethical conduct as paths to enlightenment.
2. Monastic life is central to Theravada practice, with monks expected to follow a rigorous code of discipline and serve as spiritual leaders in their communities.
3. The practice of meditation in Theravada includes techniques such as Vipassana (insight) and Samatha (calm), which are essential for developing mindfulness and concentration.
4. Laypeople play a crucial role in Theravada by supporting monastic communities through offerings and participation in rituals, receiving merit in return.
5. The concept of Nirvana in Theravada represents the ultimate goal of liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth, achieved through one's own efforts.

Review Questions

• How does Theravada Buddhism distinguish itself from other branches of Buddhism in terms of teachings and practices?
  • Theravada Buddhism distinguishes itself through its focus on the original teachings of the Buddha as found in the Pali Canon. It emphasizes individual effort towards enlightenment rather than reliance on external beings or saviors. The practices are centered on meditation, ethical living, and following a monastic code. Unlike Mahayana Buddhism, which incorporates the concept of Bodhisattvas helping others towards enlightenment, Theravada places greater importance on personal attainment.
• Discuss the role of the Sangha in Theravada Buddhism and its impact on both monastic and lay communities.
  • The Sangha plays a vital role in Theravada Buddhism as it comprises monks and nuns who preserve and teach the Buddha's teachings. This community acts as spiritual leaders for lay followers, providing guidance through teachings, meditation instructions, and rituals. The relationship between the Sangha and laypeople is reciprocal; laypeople support monastics through alms-giving while gaining merit and spiritual insight in return. This dynamic reinforces community ties and strengthens religious practices.
• Evaluate how Theravada Buddhism's emphasis on personal enlightenment shapes its social structure and cultural practices within its communities.
  • Theravada Buddhism's emphasis on personal enlightenment significantly shapes its social structure by prioritizing monastic communities over lay society. The rigorous training and lifestyle expected from monks position them as spiritual authorities, creating a hierarchy that encourages laypeople to support their endeavors. Cultural practices often revolve around merit-making activities that involve donations to monks or participating in communal rituals. This focus fosters a sense of community identity while promoting ethical living among individuals striving for personal spiritual growth.

Related terms

Pali Canon: The Pali Canon, also known as the Tipitaka, is the traditional scripture of Theravada Buddhism, containing the teachings of the Buddha as well as monastic rules.

Bodhisattva: In Mahayana Buddhism, a Bodhisattva is an enlightened being who remains in the cycle of samsara to help others achieve enlightenment; Theravada generally focuses more on individual enlightenment.

Sangha: The Sangha refers to the community of monks and nuns in Buddhism, which plays a vital role in Theravada practice by preserving teachings and guiding lay followers.