Nibanna - Arhat

Question 1

What does Arhat mean?

Answer 1

A Saint of the highest rank - perfect state of enlightenment

Question 2

What do Theravada Buddhists believe about Nibanna?

Answer 2

• You must become an Arhat first which involves its own progression.
• You must strictly follow the 8 fold path.
• Becoming an Arhat takes many lifetimes. Its better to set yourself aside as a monk or a nun.

Question 3

What do Mahayana Buddhists believe about Nibanna?

Answer 3

• The path of Arhat is too difficult for ordinary people to achieve.
• Everyone should be able to achieve Nibanna - not just monks and nuns.
• Just like the Buddha, they believe you can reach Nibanna and still live normally in this world.

Question 4

Mahayana Belief on becoming an enlightened being:

Answer 4

You must train your mind in six areas known as the 6 perfections. These are:
- Generosity
- Morality
- Patience
- Effort
- Concentration
- Wisdom