The three yanas, or vehicles are a way of categorizing Buddhist teachings.

Theravada (sometimes referred to as Hinayana) is predominantly practiced in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Burma (Myanmar), Laos, and Cambodia. [Note: Importantly, the term Hinayana (usually translated as “lesser vehicle”) has been abandoned by most scholars of Buddhism today, as it is widely felt to be derogatory.]

Theravada Buddhists follow the Pali Canon (Tipitaka) as the primary scriptural authority. They emphasize individual effort in achieving enlightenment, with the ideal being the arahant (Pali) or arhat (Sanskrit)—one who has achieved nirvana.

There is a strong emphasis on meditation (particularly vipassana), the eightfold path, strict adherence to monastic rules (Vinaya), and mindfulness. Compared to the other two yana’s, Theravada is generally more conservative, maintaining what are considered to be the original teachings of the Buddha.

In Theravada, karmic cause and effect is heavily emphasized, with the main point being the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions.

Theravada Buddhism focuses on individual enlightenment, strict adherence to the Pali Canon, and a conservative approach to the Buddha’s teachings. Theravada does not accept some practices and beliefs of the other yanas.

Buddhism looks different and has different practices across cultures.

In Theravada teachings, we learn to take responsibility for our actions and our path.

Reflect on the experience of interfacing with people from Theravada cultures and who practice Theravada Buddhism. Reflect on what makes something authentic.

• What are some of the qualities you notice in Theravada practitioners and how they present their view?
• What cultural, political or belief systems look very different but maintain the same essential beliefs?
• How are the yanas similar?
• How are they different?
• Why is the term Hinayana considered a pejorative?

Analyze the foundational principles, practices, and scriptural authority of Theravada Buddhism, compare and contrast Theravada approaches to liberation with Mahayana and Vajrayana perspectives, and evaluate how different cultural contexts have shaped the preservation and expression of early Buddhist teachings.