Theravada:
Nikaya Buddhism:
Three Vehicles:
Nibbana:
Parinibbana:
Renunciation:
Arahant:
Stupa:
Image:
R Gombrich (c.1937 - 2021CE)
H Gunaratana (c.1927-PresentCE)
"Theravada Buddhism: A Social History from Ancient Benares to Modern Colombo" - By R Gombrich
"Mindfulness in Plain English" by H Gunaratana
One general accepted theory is that by the end of the first century CE, a distinct form of Buddhism emerged that was different from what is known as Theravada. This new form is termed Mahayana (Greater Vehicle).
Mahayana is a developed form of Theravada. Key differences include: new sutras (writings), a focus on both karuna (compassion) and prajna (wisdom), and belief that everyone has the tathagatagarbha (Buddha-nature) within.
Mahayana Buddhism viewed Theravada as being based only on the Buddha’s teaching for his original audience. Mahayana’s teachings had prajnaparamita (perfect wisdom) – that is deeper truths available for more people.
A major difference between Theravada and Mahayana concerns the ultimate spiritual status of a Buddhist. In Theravada, it is to be an arhat (noble/worthy one) and in Mahayana it is to be a bodhisattva (enlightened being). In Mahayana, the best-known bodhisattvas are Avalokitesvara and Manjushri. Bodhisattvas are Buddha but continue to assist sentient beings in samsara. Mahayana’s complex cosmology describes multiple universes with multiple Buddhas and bodhisattvas
Theravada is significance as the only surviving form of "Nikaya Buddhism".
'Nikaya' translate to 'Common vehicle'- reflects the fact that its teachings form the basis for all others. The term Nikāya Buddhism was coined by Masatoshi Nagatomi (c.1926-2000CE) as a non-derogatory substitute for Hinayana to be used in RS / Buddhist studies, meaning the early Buddhist schools.
"Theravada Buddhism" developed from the Second Council- which splits Buddhism into minority Sthavira conservatives and Mahasamghikas liberals; Sthaviras unify under Asoka at 3rd council, renamed Vibhajyavada; that splits into 4 schools, Tamraparniya spreads to Sri Lanka.
Vishuddhimagga 5th cCE- preserves Pali Language, progressive interpretation of tipitaka
Nanamoli describe the Vishudhimagga- "the hub of a complete and coherent method of exegesis of the Tipitaka"
The main splits in Buddhism around the time of the 3rd Council/Asoka's reign-were the Pre-Theravadins- Puritan adherence to scripture and Pre-Mahayanas- Relaxed rules, weaker monastic order, worship of Saints
Theravadins claim identity with original Sthavira school which would mean their teachings are pure, however just because they lead from one to the other that does not mean the teachings remained the same.
Keown argues in response to Theravadin heritage claims "There is no historical evidence that the Theravada school rose until after the Great Schism"
Dipavisimya respond to Theravadin heritage- "Like a great banyan tree, the Theravada is supreme“; "the other sects arose like thorns on the tree"
Emperor Asoka-Ruler who united India, patron of Buddhism- hosted third council and send missionaries all over the place to spread the good word
The significance of Theravadans being on Sri Lanka- Isolated- little Hindu/Tibetan influence unlike Indian Mahayana; Dominant- little debate and challenging of teaching so teachings remain 'pure'
This is a hMahayanan categorisation of Buddhism rejected by Theravada. Mahayana say Theravda is Hiniyana- the 'lesser vehicle’, while Mahayana- is teh the greater 'Great vehicle’, (Tibetian Buddhism is a Third Vechile called Vajrayana- 'diamond vehicle'- this course does not focus on this)
Theravadins reject the 3 vehicles- Accepting of what they see as heresies and perversion or cupportion of the teachings of the Buddha.
Theravada believe in "realism" i.e. they believe the parts fs vs M idealist philosophy; Pali Canon vs M Prajnaparamita
Theravadins reject the term 'Hiniyana’ Means "lesser vehicle"- bit derisive and does not reflect purer teaching.
Gombrich "Since Theravadins adhere to a pre-Mahayana view of Buddhism they are... Hiniyana“ Gombrich on the name 'Theravada’ "The title thus claims conservatism"
The focus of Theravada Buddhism- Cultivation of wisdom through 4NT/8FP; Emphasis on monastic life; Monks must be chaste and not have material possessions
Human like us, dead and gone
The Dhammapada verse which has a summary of all 3 schools Verse 183: "To do no harm whatsoever (T); to cultivate perfect good to perfection (M); to tame this mind of ours (V)"
Theravada on death and the afterlife- Death leads to rebirth via cycle of samsara; Parinibbana- "eternal bliss", what happens to a dead arhat
The philosophy of Theravada- Realistic ontology- object and perception exist simultaneously, however there is only dependent reality
Dukkha: "blazing masses of fuel" (fire analogy)
The goal and central teaching of theravada Buddhists to to achieve nibbana and parinibbana alongside an emphasis on renunciation. This means to be enlightended you must complete the four stages to becoming an arahant.
In Theravada, a bhikku following the Eightfold Path goes through four stages in their spiritual progress: (1) sotapanna (stream-enterer), (2) sakadagami (once-returner), (3) anagama (non-returner) and (4) arhat.
Each stage is marked by the bhikku becoming increasingly free of “chains/fetters”, which limit spiritual progress such as ignorance, ill will, pride, craving, attachment to rituals.
Ultimately this is a solitary path and may take a number of lifetimes to complete. Once a bhikku becomes an arhat, he has attained nibbana in this life, which means that his mind is detached from his body and bodily experiences such as pain and his actions are free from karma
WHAT ARE THE 4 STAGES OF BECOMING AN ARHAT?
1: 'Stream-enterer'- first direct insight, eliminates illusion
2: 'Once-returner'- Another insight, furthers anatta
3: 'Never-returner'- Hindrances completely gone, tranquility
4: 'Arhat'- Achieved Nirvana
What does each stage mean?
A stream enterer- Understanding of the 3 marks and the 3 refuges, in addition to faith in the moral and ascetic path to enlightenment
Aonce-returner - Enlightenment after only one more rebirth; Requires a lack of attachment to sensual desire and ill will
A non returner- Complete removal of sensual desire and ill will, rebirth in the pure abodes
An arhat "perfected person“
Liberation after individual enlightenment
What is a quote from the Fire Sermon that demonstrates the Theravada nirvana ideal "be ye lamps unto yourselves"
Nirvana described in the samyutta nikaya? "It is, o bhikkhus, the extinction of desire, the extinction of hatred, the extinction of illusion"
How does Bhikkhu Bodhi describe nirvana- "the ultimate goal"
The Theravada view on Gods- No ultimate creator as no evidence, so why pray to one- Gods exist but are limited, can help with smaller issues but not nirvana
Dukkha in Theravada Emphasis on the physical "refers to the experience of the body" (Bodhi), suffering is real in that it is a change in our condition (realist)
Tanha in Theravada- Desire for sensuality, existence causes karmic 'seeds’; part of conditioned reality
Nirodha in Theravada- Nirvana is escaping samsara; Insight into 4NT is salvation; Based off of Buddha's teachings but he himself is dead and gone
Gunaratana on the focus of Theravada ontology "Don't cling to anything and don't reject anything"
Gombrich on the focus of Theravada- "hallmarks of Theravāda Buddhism are the use of Pali as its main sacred language and dependence on the Pali version of the Buddhist Canon as its sacred scripture"
Gunaratana on the emphasis of Theravada teaching- "Theravada Buddhism places additional value on liberation when it accompanied by jhanas and skill in the modes of enlightenment"
PRACTICES
Gunaratana on Theravada Buddhist practice- "by silencing the mind, we can experience real peace“; "the purpose... is personal transformation“; "when you have learned compassion for yourself, compassion for others is automatic"
Gombrich describe Theravada enlightenment- "Nirvana is the abolition of passion".
NIBANNA
‘Nibbana is not situated in any place nor is it a sort of heaven where a transcendental ego resides. It is a state which is dependent upon this body itself. It is an attainment which is within the reach of all.’ (Narada Thera)
Section A
Explore the stages to becoming an arahant in Theravada Buddhism. 8 mks (2016 SAMS Q)
Assess the importance of the distinctive practices of Theravada Buddhism 12 mks (2023 Q)
Section B
3b Analyse how the Five Precepts are applied in Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism in the contemporary world. 20mks (2020 Q)
Section C
4. Evaluate the status of the Tipitaka as the foundation of Buddhist belief and practice (2018 Q)
3.1: Theravada Buddhism
Background:
· "The way of the elders."
· Comes from Nikaya Buddhism.
o 'Common vehicle.' = Its teachings form the basis for all others.
Creation of Theravada:
· 2nd council: splits Buddhism into minority Sthavira conservatives and Mahasamghikas liberals.
o Sthaviras unify under Asoka at 3rd council.
§ Splits into 4 schools, Tamraparniya spreads to Sri Lanka.
· Vishuddhimagga 5th cCE- preserves Pali Language, progressive interpretation of Tipitaka.
· Nanamoli:
o "The hub of a complete and coherent method of exegesis of the Tipitaka."
· Theravadins identify with original Sthavira school.
o Even though their teachings come from that school, it does not mean that they are accurate to the truth or the original teachings.
o Keown:
§ "There is no historical evidence that the Theravada school rose until after the Great Schism."
o Dipavisimya:
§ "Like a great banyan tree, the Theravada is supreme."
§ "The other sects arose like thorns on the tree."
o Asoka:
§ United India, patron of Buddhism- hosted third council and send missionaries all over the place to spread the good word.
Three rafts/vehicles:
· Mahayana idea:
o Hiniyana- 'lesser vehicle'.
o Mahayana- 'Great vehicle'.
o Vajrayana- 'diamond vehicle'.
o Dhammapada on T, M and V:
§ "To do no harm whatsoever; to cultivate perfect good to perfection; to tame this mind of ours."
· Theravada rejects this idea. Especially the term Hiniyana -= Lesser vehicle.
· Gombrich:
o "Since Theravadins adhere to a pre-Mahayana view of Buddhism they are... Hiniyana" Richard Gombrich, "What the Buddha Thought" (2009):
Focus of Theravada:
· Cultivation of wisdom through 4NT/8FP.
· Monastic life.
o No material possessions.
· Arhat:
o Enlightened monk.
o People strive to be like them.
· Buddha is a central figure.
· Stupa:
o Reminder of the Buddha's teachings.
· Bhikkhu Bodhi describing the Buddha:
o "Peerless teacher."
· Mahaparinirvana sutta (Buddha is mortal):
o "Birth is ended, the holy life fulfilled, the task done! There is nothing further for the sake of this world."
· Gunaratana:
o "Don't cling to anything and don't reject anything." Henepola Gunaratana, "Mindfulness in Plain English" (2002), Chapter 3.
o "Nirvana is the abolition of passion." Henepola Gunaratana, "The Path of Mindfulness: Buddha's Way to Enlightenment" (2010), Chapter 9.
o "Theravada Buddhism places additional value on liberation when it accompanied by jhanas and skill in the modes of enlightenment." Henepola Gunaratana, "Coming Home: The Theravada Buddhist Way of Life" (2014), Chapter 7.
o "By silencing the mind, we can experience real peace." Henepola Gunaratana, "Mindfulness in Plain English" (2002), Introduction.
o "When you have learned compassion for yourself, compassion for others is automatic." Henepola Gunaratana, "Mindfulness in Plain English" (2002), Chapter 14.
· Gombrich:
o "Dependence on the Pali version of the Buddhist Canon as its sacred scripture." Richard Gombrich, "What the Buddha Thought" (2009):
Significance as Only Surviving Nikaya Form:
Preserves early teachings and practices of the Buddha.
Offers a direct connection to the historical Buddha.
"Theravada provides valuable insights into the origins of Buddhism." (Richard Gombrich, "What the Buddha Thought" (2009))
"Theravada's survival demonstrates its effectiveness in transmitting the Buddha's message." (Henepola Gunaratana, "Coming Home: The Theravada Buddhist Way of Life" (2014), Chapter 1)
Rejection of Three Vehicles:
Focuses on achieving individual liberation (arahantship) as the sole path.
Sees Mahayana concepts like becoming a bodhisattva as distractions from true liberation.
"Theravada emphasizes personal responsibility and effort for enlightenment." (Richard Gombrich, "What the Buddha Thought" (2009), Chapter 11)
"Rejection of Three Vehicles reflects Theravada's conservative approach to interpreting the Buddha's teachings." (Henepola Gunaratana, "Coming Home: The Theravada Buddhist Way of Life" (2014), Chapter 5)
Centrality of Buddha Gautama:
Seen as the sole exemplar of enlightenment and the path to follow.
Images and stupas serve as reminders of the Buddha and his teachings.
"Reverence for the Buddha fosters devotion and motivation on the path." (Richard Gombrich, "Theravada Buddhism: A Social History from Ancient Benares to Modern Colombo" (1988), Chapter 3)
"Emphasis on the Buddha encourages personal connection and inspiration." (Henepola Gunaratana, "Coming Home: The Theravada Buddhist Way of Life" (2014), Chapter 2)
Nibbana and Parinibbana:
Ultimate goal of achieving complete liberation from suffering.
Renunciation seen as crucial step on the path to nibbana.
Four stages to arahantship represent gradual progress towards this goal.
"Nibbana emphasizes detachment and inner peace". Richard Gombrich, "What the Buddha Thought" (2009), Chapter 8 also "Theravada Buddhism: A Social History from Ancient Benares to Modern Colombo" (1988), Chapter 5: This chapter explores the Theravada emphasis on meditation practice as a path to attaining nibbana. Gombrich highlights how meditation cultivates qualities like mindfulness and equanimity, leading to a state of detachment from worldly concerns and inner peace
Parinibbana highlights the finality and completeness of liberation. (Henepola Gunaratana, "Mindfulness in Plain English" (2002), Chapter 10: Gunaratana briefly mentions parinibbana as the final extinguishing of even subtle mental formations after achieving nibbana. He implies its finality and completeness compared to nibbana, which may still involve subtle mental activity.)
Distinctive Teachings and Interpretations:
Emphasis on karma, meditation, and monastic life.
Strict adherence to Vinaya Pitaka monastic code.
Interpretations influenced by Theravada commentaries and historical developments.
More teachings:
· There can be another Buddha but only after the teachings of the Buddha are forgotten. (Maitreya = Bodhisattva like this idea.)
· Gombrich:
o "He was human, not divine, and is no longer personally accessible to us."
o "A religious genius."
· Tipitaka is key.
· Goal = Liberation after individual enlightenment.
· Death leads to rebirth and samsara.
· Parinibbana:
o 'Eternal bliss.'
§ Happens when you die as an arhat.
· Realistic ontology:
o Object and perception exist simultaneously, however there is only dependent reality.
· No ultimate creator, Gods exist but are limited – can't help with nirvana.
· Dukkha:
o Bodhi:
§ "Refers to the experience of the body."
o Suffering is real.
· Tanha:
o Desire for sensuality.
o Karmic seeds.
o Part of our conditioned reality.
· Niroodha:
o Nirvana is escaping samsara.
o 4NT = salvation.
Nirvana teachings:
· Fire sermon:
o "Be ye lamps unto yourselves."
· Samyutta Nikaya:
o "It is, o bhikkhus, the extinction of desire, the extinction of hatred, the extinction of illusion."
· Bhikkhu Bodhi:
o "The ultimate goal."
Arhat teachings;
· 4 stages:
o 'Stream-enterer'-
§ First direct insight, eliminates illusion.
o 'Once-returner'-
§ Another insight, furthers anatta.
o 'Never-returner'-
§ Hindrances completely gone, tranquillity.
o 'Arhat'-
§ Achieved Nirvana.
§ Warder:
· "Perfected person."
· Buddha is a normal person, dead and gone.
· Buddhaghosa:
o "One who has followed to its end the way of Dharma."
· Harvey:
o "Monk whose mind is freed."
· Gunaratana:
o "Through their mastery over the formless attainments they are liberated from the material body."
Theravada- R Gombrich and H Gunaratana
· Gomrich on Theravada rejecting of three vehicles = ‘since Theravdains adhere to a pre-Mahayana view of Buddhism they are… Hiniyana’
· Gombrich on the name Theravada = ‘the title thus claims conservatism’
· Gombrich on the historical Buddha = ‘he was human, not divine, and is no longer personally accessible to us’ and ‘a religious genius’
· Gunaratana on arhats = ‘through their mastery over the formless attainments they are liberated from the material body’
· Gunaratana on Theravada ontology = ‘don’t cling to anything and don’t reject anything’
· Gunaratana on Theravada teaching = ‘additional value on liberation when it is accompanied by Jhanas and the skill in the modes of enlightenment’ & ‘the purpose… is personal tranformation’ & ‘when you have learned compassion for yourself, compassion for others is automatic’
· Gombrich on Nirvana = ‘Nirvana is the abolition of passion’
OTHER
"Theravada Buddhism offers a clear and accessible path to liberation, emphasizing personal responsibility and ethical conduct." (Richard Gombrich What the Buddha Thought" (2009) )
"The distinctive practices and interpretations of Theravada Buddhism shape a strong religious identity centered on the Buddha, nibbana, and the monastic life." (Henepola Gunaratana Mindfulness in Plain English" (2002) )
Key words
Theravada: "School of the Elders," emphasizes individual liberation
Nikaya Buddhism: Early traditions based on the Pali Canon
Three Vehicles: Mahayana concept of different paths to enlightenment
Nibbana: Liberation from suffering, ultimate goal in Theravada
Parinibbana: Final extinguishing of all mental defilements
Renunciation: Giving up worldly attachments
Arahant: Awakened being who has achieved nibbana
Stupa: Dome-shaped Buddhist monument containing relics or representations of the Buddha
Image: Artistic representation of the Buddha
The distinctive teachings of Theravada; their interpretation and application in light of the life and teachings of the Buddha and other traditions of Buddhism and their different emphases.