Theravada

1. What is the point of origin? Buddhism came from Northern India in the 5th century. It has to do with Siddhartha Gautama, also known as Buddha which means "Awakened" or "Enlightened One". It is said that he is the person that started this all. Siddhartha is said to have seen the people in our world suffering and wanted to try and find a solution. He found a solution by meditating and using analysis, and by doing so he was able to reach an enlightened state that helped end the suffering of…

The Term Mahayana refers to great vehicle. Mahayana was developed by the Mahayanists in order to compare their principles with those of other Buddhist sects, particularly the Theravada. Mahayana the “great vehicle” was used to fake Theravadins by naming their principles ‘Hinayana’ or ‘small vehicle’. Mahayana Buddhism focuses on the doctrine of the Bodhisattva. The term Bodhisattva can also be named as Buddhahood, which means desire for complete enlightenment, has been aroused. Mahayana Buddhism…

the original Buddha teaching, (400 years after his death) and emerging itself as Hinayana and Mahayana which posed interesting imaged in traditions. The teachings that remained closest to original Buddha’s teaching in tradition was Hinayana or Theravada. Mahayana is the branch of Buddhism that includes Tibetan, Chinese, and Zen Buddhism, developed around AD. Chan/Zen Buddhism and Pure Land Buddhism represent extensions of Buddha’s original impulse to put in place systems of spiritual teaching…

In Theravada Buddhism women cannot become a bodhisattva, once the initial idea of becoming a Buddha has occurred rebirth as a woman becomes impossible. Theravada Buddhism says that women can only become an arahat, which requires a teacher, so that is the main goal for women followers of Theravada Buddhism. Even the Buddha himself had said that women cannot become a fully awakened Buddha. Women must…

Most of these religious scholars had different perspectives on the core values of Buddhism and developed their schools of Buddhist thoughts. Buddhists today, usually identify themselves as either Theravada or Mahayana. Over time, both these sects branched out further, giving rise to newer schools. Madhyamaka Buddhism has two main wings – Madhyamaka and Yogacara. The thesis of this article is two compare and contrast between these two on the basis…

Thailand, with over 90% of the population identifying themselves as a Buddhist. Although the government never officially declared Buddhism to be the national religion, the king is required to be Buddhist. Buddhism in Thailand is modeled after the Theravada school of Buddhism and incorporates ideals from Mahayana Buddhism, Hinduism, and the old folk religion of the people. Buddhism originated in India and since then has spread all over the world, inspiring societies and cultures everywhere.…

influence “what kinds of clothing, speech, and manners are appropriate for formal occasions” (84). Buddhism is one of the biggest religions in the world with over 381 million followers. In Thailand, about 95% of the population are practitioners of the Theravada Buddhism, which is the official religion of the land (Buddhism in Thailand, 122). Buddhism has influenced every aspect of the Thai life, the structure and form of government, the system of…

at Buddhism and its 2,500 year long history. Through careful research, Samuel Bercholz and Sherab Chödzin discuss multiple aspects of Buddha and Buddhism. This book covers Buddha's life and historical background. In addition, the book discusses Theravada, Mahayana, Zen, and Tibetan Buddhism explaining the similarities, differences, and origins of each. The text provides meditation instructions, an explanation of reincarnation, images of Buddhist art and architecture, as well as definitions for…

Buddhism, a serene and peaceful religion inspired by the teachings of Siddhartha, preaches non-violence and pushes the ultimate goal of both internal and external happiness for all. After introduction in the nineteenth century, many of their beliefs have been integrated in society and can be seen in aspects of animal rights, and peace views. One is able to adopt this religion freely, without having to convert which interesting enough, has truly shaped and allowed Buddhist ideas to become…

to obtain under their officers. Chandra Gupta II’s rule also affected India’s religions in various ways. Notably, Chandra Gupta II supported Buddhist monasteries and institutions for learning. It was during his rule that Buddhism split into the Theravada and Mahayana sects, leading to a flourishing of Indian culture. Hinduism grew as well, changing from a polytheistic religion to representing one god in many forms. Meanwhile, Asoka only spread Buddhism during the Mauryan rule. His ruling style…