Buddhist Schools — Definition

Definition

Buddhist schools represent the diverse traditions, philosophical interpretations, and monastic practices that have evolved from the original teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, over two millennia.

Initially, after the Buddha's Mahaparinirvana, the Sangha (monastic community) remained largely unified, focusing on preserving the Dharma (teachings) and Vinaya (monastic discipline). However, as Buddhism spread geographically and encountered different cultures, and as doctrinal interpretations began to diverge, various schools or sects started to emerge.

These divergences were often formalized during the early Buddhist councils, such as the Second and Third Buddhist Councils, which addressed issues of monastic discipline and doctrinal purity. The primary schism that led to the formation of major schools was often rooted in differing views on the nature of an Arhat (a perfected person who has attained Nirvana), the role of the Bodhisattva (one who delays their own Nirvana to help others), the interpretation of the Buddha's teachings, and the path to enlightenment itself.

Broadly, Buddhist schools can be categorized into two main historical branches: Hinayana (the 'Lesser Vehicle') and Mahayana (the 'Great Vehicle'). While the term 'Hinayana' is often considered pejorative by its proponents, it primarily refers to the early schools that emphasized individual liberation and adhered strictly to the Pali Canon.

Theravada Buddhism, prevalent in Southeast Asia, is the sole surviving school of the early Hinayana traditions. Mahayana, on the other hand, emerged later, emphasizing the Bodhisattva ideal, universal salvation, and a more expansive canon of sutras.

Within Mahayana, further philosophical schools like Madhyamika and Yogachara developed, offering profound insights into emptiness (Shunyata) and consciousness (Vijnaptimatra).

Later, from Mahayana, a third major vehicle, Vajrayana (the 'Diamond Vehicle'), developed, particularly in Tibet and the Himalayan regions. Vajrayana incorporates tantric practices, elaborate rituals, and the use of mantras, mandalas, and mudras to achieve enlightenment rapidly. It views enlightenment as accessible in a single lifetime through intense meditative and ritualistic practices.

Beyond these major 'vehicles,' numerous sub-schools and philosophical traditions existed, especially in ancient India, such as Sarvastivada and Sautrantika, which debated the nature of reality and the existence of 'dharmas' (momentary constituents of existence).

These schools contributed significantly to the rich philosophical landscape of Indian Buddhism before its decline in its land of origin. Understanding these schools is crucial for appreciating the depth and adaptability of Buddhist thought, its impact on art, culture, and philosophy across Asia, and its continued relevance in contemporary times.