Core Teachings of Theravada Buddhism

Theravada Buddhism is often thought of as the oldest kind of Buddhism. Here are the main teachings you should know about:

1. Four Noble Truths: These are the key parts of what the Buddha taught. They are:

   • There is suffering (Dukkha).
   • Suffering has a cause (Samudaya).
   • Suffering can end (Nirodha).
   • There is a way to end suffering (Magga).

2. The Noble Eightfold Path: This is a helpful guide for living a good life. It includes:

   • Right Understanding: Knowing the truth.
   • Right Intent: Having good thoughts.
   • Right Speech: Speaking kindly.
   • Right Action: Doing good things.
   • Right Livelihood: Making a living in a fair way.
   • Right Effort: Trying your best.
   • Right Mindfulness: Being aware of your thoughts and feelings.
   • Right Concentration: Focusing your mind.

3. Three Marks of Existence: These are important ideas about life:

   • Everything changes (Anicca).
   • Life can be difficult (Dukkha).
   • There is no permanent self (Anatta).

4. Karma and Rebirth: This means that our actions matter. They can shape what happens to us in the future and in the next life.

Differences with Other Schools

• Mahayana Buddhism:

  • This branch focuses on Bodhisattvas. These are people who want to become enlightened but also want to help everyone else reach enlightenment too. About 56% of Buddhists in the world follow Mahayana.
  • It includes more texts, like the Lotus Sutra.

• Vajrayana Buddhism:

  • This branch is known for its unique practices and rituals, including Tantra, which aren’t as important in Theravada. About 6% of Buddhists are Vajrayana followers.
  • This school emphasizes achieving enlightenment quickly and using rituals to help with spiritual growth.

Statistical Overview:

• Theravada Buddhism makes up about 38% of all Buddhists around the world. It is mostly found in countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia.
• Mahayana Buddhism is more common in places like China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, making up about 56% of Buddhists. Vajrayana is the smallest group.

In summary, Theravada Buddhism is about personal enlightenment through following the Eightfold Path. In contrast, Mahayana and Vajrayana focus on helping others and using rituals to deepen spiritual understanding.