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

Caga
The quality of generosity or liberality. The attitude that inspires giving and sharing with others, a key aspect of the Buddhist path.
Cakkhu-indriya
The faculty of sight or eye-consciousness, one of the six sense organs in Buddhist psychology, through which visual perception arises.
Canon
A collection of texts that are considered authentic and authoritative within a particular tradition. In Buddhism, the canon includes the Tripitaka and other important scriptures.
Chan
The Chinese school of Buddhism that emphasizes meditation (dhyana) as the path to awakening. It is known as Zen in Japan and focuses on direct experience and realization of one's true nature.
Chanting
The recitation of mantras or sutras, often done in a rhythmic and repetitive manner, as a form of meditation, devotion, and practice.
Charya
A ritual dance in the Nepalese Buddhist tradition that embodies tantric principles. It is used to express devotion, visualizing deities and cosmic forces, seen as a form of movement meditation.
Circumambulation
The practice of walking in a clockwise direction around a sacred object, such as a stupa or temple, as an act of devotion and mindfulness.
Citta (Mind)
The mind, often used in Buddhist texts to refer to both the cognitive and emotional aspects of consciousness.
Common Vehicle
A term used to refer to foundational Buddhist paths that emphasize personal liberation through ethical discipline, meditation, and wisdom. It focuses on freeing oneself from suffering and the cycle of rebirth, serving as the essential basis for deeper practices in the path to awakening.
Compassion
The ability to empathize with the suffering of others and the wish to alleviate that suffering. In Buddhism, compassion (karuna) is an essential quality to cultivate along with wisdom.
Concentration (Samadhi)
The mental discipline of focusing the mind on a single object or thought, leading to deep states of meditation and mental clarity. It is a key aspect of Buddhist meditation practices.
Confession
A practice in Buddhism where individuals acknowledge and repent for their harmful actions, seeking to purify themselves and improve their ethical conduct.
Constructivism
A learning approach where knowledge is built through experience and reflection. In Buddhist education, it encourages inquiry, dialogue, and personal insight.