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

Habit
A repeated pattern of behavior, thought, or emotion that arises from past actions and conditioning. In Buddhism, habits shaped by ignorance or craving can obscure awareness and reinforce suffering, while mindful habits support the path to awakening.
Harmonious Speech
Communication that is kind, truthful, and intended to bring people together rather than divide. It is one of the aspects of Right Speech in the Eightfold Path and supports ethical conduct and healthy relationships.
Heart Sutra
A central Mahayana Buddhist scripture that teaches the nature of emptiness (shunyata), showing that all phenomena are devoid of inherent existence. Its core phrase is "Form is emptiness, emptiness is form."
Heavenly realms
In Buddhist cosmology, these are higher states of existence inhabited by beings who enjoy great bliss and longevity due to past good karma. However, they are still within samsara and subject to impermanence.
History of Buddhism
The development of Buddhism beginning with the life of Siddhartha Gautama over 2,500 years ago in India, and continuing through its transmission across Asia and into the modern global context.
Holy beings
Individuals who have reached high levels of understanding on the path, such as arhats or bodhisattvas. They are often revered as guides or examples of what is possible through practice.
Homage
Acts of reverence that acknowledge the qualities of the Buddha and awakened beings. This can include bowing, chanting, or offering praise, and helps to cultivate humility, devotion, and inspiration.
Human birth (precious)
In Buddhist teachings, being born as a human is seen as extremely rare and valuable because it offers the conditions necessary to hear and practice the Dharma.
Humility
A quality of modesty and openness in Buddhist practice, recognizing one's limitations and avoiding arrogance. Humility allows for deeper learning and connection with others.