The Therevada Tradition

Question 1

The Pali Scriptures

Answer 1

• The Tripitaka (“Three Baskets”):
  1. The Sutta Pitaka- Collection of the Buddha’s original teachings
  2. The Vinaya Pitaka- Regulations of Monastic behaviour
  3. Abhidharmma Pitaka- Commentary on the Suttas

Question 2

Relationship Between the Laity & Monastics

Answer 2

• Each Group is dependent on the other:
• Laity depend on the Monastics for teachings, moral leadership, & merit-making opportunities
• The Monastics depend on the Laity for financial & material aid
  
  1. Food
  2. Clothing
  3. Shelter
  4. Medicine

Question 3

Uposatha Days

Answer 3

“Sabbath on the days of the lunar quarters”

-Vasaki: Commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha

Question 4

The Patimokkha

Answer 4

• 227 rules for bikkhas(Monks)

- 331 rules for bikkhunis(Nuns)

Question 5

The Four Paths

Answer 5

1. Stream Entry- On the way to enlightenment in no more than 7 lives
2. Once Returning- Only needs one more life
3. Never Returning- Not anymore human life
4. Arhant- Reached the goal of Nirvana