Hinayana

Progress made on the spiritual path occurs through a combination of both linear and nonlinear models. Learn the sources of these models in the teachings and how they fit together.

When we understand different schools properly from their own points of view, we develop a great deal of respect for all of the teachings of the Buddha.

A brief picture of Buddhism in Asia and the West.

Although there are several variations in ways to practice the four close placements of mindfulness, here we examine the Theravada methods as taught by Buddhadasa Bhikkhu.

The ten far-reaching attitudes are states of mind that bring bodhisattvas to enlightenment. Although shravakas may also develop these attitudes, they are not considered “far-reaching” unless they are conjoined with a bodhichitta aim.

In “A Filigree of Realizations” (“Abhisamayalamkara”), Maitreya explains the progression of the five levels of mind we achieve that serve as pathways leading to liberation and enlightenment.

A variety of forms of Buddhism developed as people in the different lands it reached emphasized one or another aspect of the teachings. Here is a general description of some of the major forms found in Southeast Asia, China and Tibet.