Theravada Buddhism The Way of the Elders

Theravada zPasses Buddha’s teachings unchanged ythey were first oral in nature ynow they are written down zAlthough some changes have occurred they have probably kept many early traditions. zThey tend to be conservative.

Theravada zStresses reaching nirvana through detachment and desirelessness by way of meditation. zThe life of the monk is the surest path. zThe ideal of “arhat” or perfect being or worthy is a person who has reached nirvana.

The Life of a Theravada Monk zBeg daily for food and therefore live close to the lay people. zWander throughout the town. zThe monasteries are located in the center of town very often. zDonors believe that there are increasing their karma but giving the monks food and supporting the monasteries.

Reciprocal Relationship zIn return for donations the monasteries set-up schools, hospitals, meditation centers, and care for stray animals. zThey are honored guests at civic events and in homes. zThey are also role models of gentleness and compassion and are often consulted for advice.

Teachings and Literature zThe Pali Canon is the Theravada collection of the teachings of Buddha zAs a whole the material is called “Tripitaka” which means three baskets. zThe first collections of the sayings of Buddha in the form of sermons or dialogues. zThis type of material is called “sutra.”

The Division of the Teachings zThe Sutra is divided into five groups yDigha Nikaya (long teachings) yMajjhima Nikaya (middle length teachings) ySamyutta Nikaya (connected teachings) yAnguttara Nikaya (graduated teachings) yKhuddaka Nikaya (small book collections). It includes the Dhammapada.

The Second Collection zThe second collections of writings are called “vinaya.” yIt outlines the procedural rules for monastic life. yIt includes rules about begging, eating, relations with monks and non-monks, and other disciplines.

The Third Collection zIt is called he abhidharma which means the “the works that go beyond elemental teachings.” yIt is systematized the doctrine presented in more or less randomly in the sutras.

Art and Architecture zAlthough images of Buddhism did not appear early on, symbols were used to represent Buddha and his teachings. yThe eight-spoken wheel represents the Eight Fold Path and all of the basic Buddha teachings, the Dharma. yThe umbrella symbolized Buddha’s authority. yThe “stupa” or large mound represents the remains of important Buddhist monks and sites.

StupaMandala

Item 2