What is Nirvana (Nibbana)

Definition

Nirvana (Nibbana) literally means "extinction", like a flame that is extinguished. It is the ultimate goal of the Buddhist path.

Not Annihilation

A common misunderstanding is that Nirvana is annihilation or nothing. The Buddha explained it as positive, not negative.

Types of Nirvana

• Sa-upadisesa-nibbana: Nirvana with residues (in life, as Arahant)
• Anupadisesa-nibbana: Nirvana without residues (at death, Parinibbana)

Paths to Nirvana

Nirvana is attained through:

1. Direct understanding of the Four Noble Truths
2. Cultivation of the Noble Eightfold Path
3. Development of vipassana
4. Extinction of the Ten Fetters

Common Misunderstandings

1. "Nirvana is annihilation": NO, it is liberation from suffering
2. "Nirvana is far away": NO, it is attainable in this life
3. "Nirvana is a state of nothing": NO, it is positive
4. "Only monks can attain it": NO, laypeople can too

Sources

• The Princeton Dictionary of Buddhism
• Walpola Rahula: What the Buddha Taught
• Bhikkhu Bodhi: The Connected Discourses of the Buddha