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

Gelong (Monk)
Fully ordained monk; equivalent to the Sanskrit term Bhikkhu. A Gelong takes 253 vows and lives according to the Vinaya, the monastic code of discipline.
Gelongma (Nun)
Fully ordained nun; equivalent to the Sanskrit term Bhikkhuni. A Gelongma upholds a complete set of monastic vows and dedicates her life to ethical conduct, study, and practice.
Getsul/Getsulma (Novices)
Novice monk or nun. A Getsul or Getsulma undertakes a simplified set of vows as preparation for full ordination, focusing on moral discipline and the foundations of the monastic path. Equivalent to the Sanskrit terms Sramanera/Sramanerika.
Gompa (Monastery)
Tibetan Buddhist monastery or meditation hall. A Gompa serves as a place for study, practice, and ritual, and often includes living quarters for monastics, shrines, and community gathering spaces.
Grasping
The mental tendency to cling to people, objects, or ideas as a source of security or identity. In Buddhism, grasping is one of the key causes of suffering and a result of not seeing things as impermanent and empty.
Gratitude
A positive mental state of appreciation for others, life, and the path. In Buddhism, cultivating gratitude strengthens compassion and mindfulness and supports ethical living.
Great Compassion
The profound wish for all beings to be free from suffering and the causes of suffering. Great compassion transcends personal concern and serves as the foundation for the bodhisattva path.
Great Vehicle (Mahayana)
One of the major Buddhist traditions, emphasizing the aspiration to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. The Great Vehicle emphasizes emptiness, compassion, and the bodhisattva ideal.
Guru (Teacher)
A teacher who guides the student on the path of awakening. In Tibetan Buddhism, the lama or guru is considered the embodiment of the teachings and is regarded with deep devotion and respect.