theravada buddhism the way of the elders theravada zpasses buddha’s teachings unchanged ythey were...
TRANSCRIPT
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.