Theravada Buddhism

The Way of the Elders

Theravada

Passes Buddha’s teachings unchanged they were first oral in nature now they are written down

Although some changes have occurred they have probably kept many early traditions.

They tend to be conservative.

Theravada

Stresses reaching nirvana through detachment and desirelessness by way of meditation.

The life of the monk is the surest path.

The ideal of “arhat” or perfect being or worthy is a person who has reached nirvana.

The Life of a Theravada Monk

Beg daily for food and therefore live close to the lay people.

Wander throughout the town.The monasteries are located in the

center of town very often.Donors believe that there are increasing

their karma but giving the monks food and supporting the monasteries.

Reciprocal Relationship

In return for donations the monasteries set-up schools, hospitals, meditation centers, and care for stray animals.

They are honored guests at civic events and in homes.

They are also role models of gentleness and compassion and are often consulted for advice.

Teachings and Literature

The Pali Canon is the Theravada collection of the teachings of Buddha

As a whole the material is called “Tripitaka” which means three baskets.

The first collections of the sayings of Buddha in the form of sermons or dialogues.

This type of material is called “sutra.”

The Division of the Teachings

The Sutra is divided into five groups Digha Nikaya (long teachings) Majjhima Nikaya (middle length

teachings) Samyutta Nikaya (connected teachings) Anguttara Nikaya (graduated teachings) Khuddaka Nikaya (small book

collections). It includes the Dhammapada.

The Second Collection

The second collections of writings are called “vinaya.” It outlines the procedural rules for

monastic life. It includes rules about begging, eating,

relations with monks and non-monks, and other disciplines.

The Third Collection

It is called he abhidharma which means the “the works that go beyond elemental teachings.” It is systematized the doctrine

presented in more or less randomly in the sutras.

Art and Architecture

Although images of Buddhism did not appear early on, symbols were used to represent Buddha and his teachings. The eight-spoken wheel represents the Eight

Fold Path and all of the basic Buddha teachings, the Dharma.

The umbrella symbolized Buddha’s authority. The “stupa” or large mound represents the

remains of important Buddhist monks and sites.

Stupa Mandala

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