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

Rebirth
The continuation of the cycle of existence (samsara), where beings are born again according to their karma, until liberation is attained.
Refuge
The act of turning to the Buddha as teacher, the Dharma as path, and the Sangha as community for guidance, protection, and support on the journey.
Renunciation
A state of mind of aspiring to stop continuing to create the causes for suffering, letting go of attachment to worldly pleasures and distractions in order to focus on the path to awakening and liberation.
REPL (Read-Evaluate-Print Loop)
Though not traditionally Buddhist, this programming term is sometimes used metaphorically to describe iterative contemplation, engaging with a teaching, reflecting on it, applying it, and learning from the result.
Right Action
Conduct based on compassion and non-harming, including refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct; one of the ethical training on the path.
Right Concentration
The development of deep meditative states (samadhi) that support insight and liberation.
Right Effort
The diligent cultivation of wholesome states of mind and the abandonment of unwholesome ones.
Right Intention
The second factor of the Noble Eightfold Path, emphasizing intentions of renunciation, goodwill, and harmlessness as motivations for ethical conduct and meditation.
Right Livelihood
Earning a living in ways that do not cause harm to others or oneself, in line with Buddhist ethics.
Right Mindfulness
The practice of maintaining awareness of the body, feelings, mind, and phenomena in the present moment, with clarity and discernment.
Right Speech
Ethical speech that avoids lying, divisive talk, harsh words, and idle chatter; part of the Noble Eightfold Path.
Right View
The first factor of the Noble Eightfold Path; a correct understanding of karma, interdependence, and the Four Noble Truths, which forms the foundation of the path to awakening.
Rinpoche
A Tibetan title meaning "Precious One," given to highly respected and often reincarnated teachers who are recognized for their wisdom and compassion.
Ritual
A meaningful sequence of symbolic actions, such as prostrations, offerings, or chanting, performed to express devotion, generate merit, and connect with deeper truths.