Pre-sectarian Buddhism

Mahajanapadas_(c._500_BCE)

Fasting_buddha_at_lahore_museum

Fragmentary_Buddhist_text_-_Gandhara_birchbark_scrolls_(1st_C),_part_31_-_BL_Or._14915

Pre-sectarian Buddhism refers to the earliest phase of Buddhism, which existed before the various schools and sects of Buddhism began to develop. This period is often considered to encompass the time from the Buddha's enlightenment and the formation of the first Sangha until the first Buddhist councils.

Historical Context

Pre-sectarian Buddhism is believed to have originated in the 5th century BCE in the region of Magadha in ancient India. This period is characterized by the teachings of Gautama Buddha, who is regarded as the founder of Buddhism. The teachings during this time were primarily oral and were later compiled into various Buddhist scriptures.

Teachings

The core teachings of Pre-sectarian Buddhism are encapsulated in the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. These teachings form the foundation of all later Buddhist traditions.

Four Noble Truths

1. The truth of dukkha (suffering)
2. The truth of the origin of dukkha
3. The truth of the cessation of dukkha
4. The truth of the path leading to the cessation of dukkha

Noble Eightfold Path

1. Right View
2. Right Intention
3. Right Speech
4. Right Action
5. Right Livelihood
6. Right Effort
7. Right Mindfulness
8. Right Concentration

Key Concepts

Pre-sectarian Buddhism introduced several key concepts that are central to Buddhist philosophy:

• Anatta (non-self)
• Anicca (impermanence)
• Dukkha (suffering)
• Karma (action and its consequences)
• Samsara (cycle of rebirth)

Practices

The practices during this period were focused on meditation, ethical conduct, and the development of wisdom. The Vinaya, or monastic code, was established to guide the conduct of the Sangha.

Buddhist Councils

The first Buddhist council was held shortly after the Buddha's death, around 400 BCE, to preserve his teachings. This council is considered a significant event in Pre-sectarian Buddhism as it led to the compilation of the Tripitaka.

Related Pages

• Buddhism
• Gautama Buddha
• Four Noble Truths
• Noble Eightfold Path
• Sangha
• Buddhist councils
• Tripitaka