Hinayana (Noun)
Meaning 1
An offensive name for the early conservative Theravada Buddhism; it died out in India but survived in Sri Lanka and was taken from there to other regions of southwestern Asia.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
A major school of Buddhism teaching personal salvation through one's own efforts.
Classification
Nouns denoting groupings of people or objects.
Examples
- The teachings of Hinayana emphasize the attainment of enlightenment through individual effort and discipline.
- In the Hinayana tradition, the ultimate goal is to achieve liberation from the cycle of rebirth and suffering.
- The practices of Hinayana are designed to help the individual develop the skills and wisdom necessary to overcome ignorance and craving.
- The term Hinayana is often used to describe the more austere and individualistic approach to Buddhism, in contrast to the more inclusive and expansive approach of Mahayana.
- Hinayana is often seen as a more conservative and traditional approach to Buddhism, focusing on the original teachings of the Buddha.