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

Nihilism
A mistaken view that denies the continuity, or value of anything. In Buddhism, nihilism is one of the two extremes to be avoided, as it denies karma, cause and effect, and the possibility of liberation.
Nirodha (Cessation)
The cessation of suffering, which is the third of the Four Noble Truths. Nirodha refers to the end of craving and ignorance, leading to freedom from samsara.
Nirvana (Liberation)
The ultimate goal of Buddhist practice; a state beyond suffering and rebirth, characterized by peace, freedom, and the absence of delusion and craving.
Noble beings
Individuals who have understood at least the first stage of awakening and have seen the truth of the Dharma directly; includes stream-enterers, once-returners, non-returners, arhats, and advanced bodhisattvas.
Noble Eightfold Path
The Buddha's path to the cessation of suffering, consisting of right view, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.
Noble Truths (Four)
The core teachings of the Buddha that outline the nature of suffering, its cause, its cessation, and the path leading to its cessation.
Non-duality
The understanding that dualistic distinctions such as self and other, or samsara and nirvana, are ultimately conceptual and do not reflect the true nature of existence.
Non-self
The insight that there is no permanent, independent self; a central teaching that helps overcome attachment and the illusion of ego.