Theravada Buddhism

Theravada Buddhism – often called Hinayana Buddhism – and Mahayana Buddhism are the two major forms of Buddhism that share the Buddha’s basic teachings but have a different interpretation of its ideals and practices. Based on the cannon of ancient Indian Buddhism, its scriptures are in Pali and adhere to the original doctrines and practices taught by the Buddha. It traces its lineage to the elders who were the original senior monks who participated in and established the traditions of the first Buddhist sangha, the community of monks. Since Buddha claimed to be just a man and a great teacher, followers must rely exclusively on their own efforts and conduct to achieve Buddhist goals. Devotees, therefore, cannot not expect miraculous help from any deity and only through strenuous religious discipline can one develop into a spiritual being of the highest level. Theravada Buddhism is practiced in Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Malaysia.

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