Buddhism
The Development of Theravada Buddhism
· 8 min read
The history of Theravada Buddhism from Vibhajjavada school in India to its expansion.
Origins of Vibhajjavada
After the Buddha's death, the Buddhist community divided into different schools (nikayas). The Vibhajjavada ("the discriminators") was formed in India.
Relationship with Theravada
According to Theravada tradition, its school is the direct continuation of the Vibhajjavada. The transition took place in Sri Lanka around the 1st century CE.
Expansion to Sri Lanka
Mahinda brought Theravada Buddhism to Sri Lanka in 250 BCE.
The Pali Canon in Sri Lanka
During the 1st century CE, the Pali Canon was put in writing.
Controversies: Mahavihara, Abhayagiri, Jetavana
The early history is marked by three main monasteries.
Buddhaghosa's Commentary (5th c. CE)
Buddhaghosa compiled the Visuddhimagga.
King Parakramabahu (12th c.)
Consolidated Theravada as the state religion in Sri Lanka.
Theravada in Myanmar
King Anawrahta (r. 1044-1077) consolidated Theravada in Myanmar.
Theravada in Thailand
The Sukhothai kingdom adopted Theravada in the 13th century.
Theravada in Cambodia and Laos
Adopted in the Khmer and Lan Xang kingdoms.
Current State of Theravada
Theravada is the majority religion in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
Sources
- Mahavamsa (chronicle of Sri Lanka)
- Buddhaghosa: Visuddhimagga
- Richard Gombrich: Theravada Buddhism (2006)
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