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

Bhava-tanha
Craving for existence or becoming, one of the forms of attachment that leads to suffering. It refers to the desire to continue existing in some form, whether in this life or future lives.
Bhikkhu (Monk)
A fully ordained male Buddhist monk who has committed to the monastic lifestyle and practices the teachings of the Buddha.
Bhikkhuni (Nun)
A fully ordained female Buddhist monastic/nun who has committed to the monastic lifestyle and practices the teachings of the Buddha.
Bhumisparsha Mudra
The earth-touching gesture, in which the Buddha is depicted with his hand touching the earth. It symbolizes the Buddha calling the earth to witness his enlightenment, often seen in depictions of the Buddha's awakening.
Bloom’s Taxonomy
A framework for categorizing educational goals into six levels: Remembering, Understanding, Applying, Analyzing, Evaluating, and Creating. It is used to structure learning and assess progress. In Buddhist education, it helps guide practitioners from recalling teachings to deeply analyzing and integrating them into their lives.
Bodhicitta
The awakened mind, or the altruistic intention to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings. It is the desire to help others reach liberation from suffering.
Bodhisattva
A being who has made a vow to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all beings. A bodhisattva acts out of compassion, seeking enlightenment not just for themselves, but for the liberation of all sentient beings.
Brahmaviharas
The four sublime states of mind, which are: loving-kindness (metta), compassion (karuna), sympathetic joy (mudita), and equanimity (upekkha). These qualities are cultivated to develop a compassionate and balanced heart.
Buddhanature
The inherent potential for awakening or enlightenment that exists within all beings. It refers to the idea that all beings have the seed of Buddhahood within them, though it may be obscured by delusions and ignorance.