Glossary

This glossary provides definitions for key Buddhist terms, concepts, and practices referenced throughout the Middle Way Education Curricular Framework. Terms are drawn from multiple Buddhist traditions and include both original language words (Sanskrit, Pali, Japanese, Tibetan) and English translations. Each definition aims to be accessible while maintaining accuracy to traditional meanings.

The glossary serves as a reference tool for educators and students engaging with Buddhist concepts across the framework’s five domains. Definitions emphasize practical understanding and application rather than purely academic interpretation, supporting the framework’s inquiry-based approach to learning.

Terms marked with asterisks (*) indicate transliterated words from original Buddhist languages. Cross-references appear in parentheses where relevant concepts connect to other glossary entries.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Abhidharma
The detailed and systematic analysis of the Buddha's teachings, focusing on the nature of the mind, how experiences arise, and the components of phenomena. It is an advanced teaching that provides insights into Buddhist psychology and the workings of the mind.
Acupuncture
A Chinese medical practice of inserting fine needles into specific points along the meridians to balance qi and treat physical or emotional conditions.
Agama
(early Buddhist texts) Collections of early Buddhist discourses preserved mainly in Chinese and Sanskrit, parallel to the Pali Nikayas.
Ahimsa
(nonviolence) The practice of non-violence or non-harming, a fundamental ethical principle that emphasizes the avoidance of causing harm to any living being.
Ahimsa (Nonviolence)
The practice of non-violence or non-harming, a fundamental ethical principle that emphasizes the avoidance of causing harm to any living being.
Ajahn
A Thai term for "teacher," used as a title for senior monks in the Theravada tradition.
Almsgiving
A practice in Buddhism where food or other essentials are offered to monks and nuns, cultivating generosity and supporting the monastic community.
Anapanasati
(mindfulness of breathing) A core meditation practice focusing on awareness of the breath to develop concentration, insight, and calm.
Anatman/Anatta
The Buddhist teaching of "no-self" or "non-self," which asserts that there is no permanent, unchanging self or soul, rejecting the concept of a fixed identity. (see atman)
Anicca
(Impermanence) The teaching of impermanence, emphasizing that all things are in constant flux and nothing is permanent. All phenomena are subject to change.
Anicca (Impermanence)
The teaching of impermanence, emphasizing that all things are in constant flux and nothing is permanent. All phenomena are subject to change.
Anjali Mudra
A hand gesture, where the palms are pressed together in front of the chest in a prayer-like position, often used to express respect, reverence, or greeting in Buddhist practices.
Anthropocentric
A viewpoint that places human beings at the center of the universe, often contrasted with Buddhist teachings that emphasize interconnectedness and the importance of all beings.
Arhat
(foe destroyer) A person who has attained liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) by eliminating the gross levels of mental afflictions. An arhat has overcome the causes of suffering and will not be reborn.
Arhat (Foe Destroyer)
A person who has attained liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) by eliminating the gross levels of mental afflictions. An arhat has overcome the causes of suffering and will not be reborn.
Artifacts
Objects created by humans that hold cultural or historical significance, often used in the context of Buddhist relics or sacred objects.
Atman
A concept from Hinduism referring to the eternal self or soul. Buddhism teaches anatta (no-self) in contrast to this idea, asserting that there is no permanent, unchanging soul. (see anatman)
Attachment
Clinging or fixation to people, objects, experiences, or ideas with the expectation that they will bring lasting satisfaction. It's the exaggeration of the positive qualities of something, which leads to projections. It is one of the three mental poisons that lead to disappointment when things inevitably change.
Ayatanas
(sense bases) The twelve bases of sensory experience, six internal (eye, ear, nose, tongue, body, mind) and six external (form, sound, smell, taste, touch, mental objects).
Ayurveda
An ancient Indian system of medicine that balances the body's energies (doshas) using diet, herbs, and lifestyle to support health and longevity.