18 Schools of Buddhism

18 Schools of Buddhism

Buddhism is traditionally classified into several schools that vary in beliefs, practices, and scriptures. The following list outlines the 18 schools of Buddhism:

1. **Vaibhashika** - A school of early Buddhist philosophy that emphasizes the importance of the Abhidharma texts.

2. **Sautrantika** - Another early school that holds the Sutras to be the primary texts over the Abhidharma.

3. **Theravada** - Known as the "Teaching of the Elders," this school is prevalent in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia and focuses on individual enlightenment.

4. **Mahayana** - This school embraces a broader interpretation that includes the Bodhisattva ideal, with significant developments in East Asia.

5. **Vajrayana** - Also known as Tantric Buddhism, this school incorporates rituals and esoteric practices, primarily found in Tibet.

6. **Nichiren** - A Japanese school that focuses on the Lotus Sutra as the ultimate teaching of the Buddha.

7. **Tendai** - A school that integrates various teachings and emphasizes the doctrine of the One Vehicle.

8. **Shingon** - Another Japanese school that focuses on esoteric practices and rituals to attain enlightenment.

9. **Pure Land** - A school emphasizing devotion to Amitabha Buddha and the aspiration to be reborn in his Pure Land.

10. **Zen** - A school that emphasizes direct experience and meditation (zazen) to realize one's true nature.

11. **Chan** - The Chinese precursor to Zen that focuses on meditation and spontaneous insight into one's nature.

12. **Kagyu** - A Tibetan school known for its emphasis on the oral transmission of teachings.

13. **Nyingma** - The oldest school of Tibetan Buddhism, known for its teachings on Dzogchen and the preservation of early texts.

14. **Gelug** - Founded by Je Tsongkhapa, this school emphasizes monastic discipline and scholarship.

15. **Sakya** - A school that integrates both monastic and lay practices, known for its teachings on the path of the two truths.

16. **Shakya** - Similar in approach to the Sakya, this school has its unique interpretations and practices.

17. **Rimed** - A non-sectarian movement in Tibetan Buddhism that seeks to transcend the limitations of specific schools.

18. **New Buddhist Movements** - Various modern interpretations and practices that may not fit traditional classifications but are rooted in Buddhist principles.

References

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