Early Buddhist Teachings

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These pages hold topics, threads, people or concepts that weave through many of the resources on this site. I developed the topics pages mostly for trainings as a resource. I hope they can be useful in your explorations. Many of these topics have other meanings in different settings or traditions. I offer these interpretations based on my experience only.

About

Early Buddhist Teachings

Early Buddhism refers to the teachings and practices that emerged during the lifetime of the Buddha and in the generation immediately following his death. It centers on direct insight into reality through ethical living, meditation, and wisdom.

Preserved in the Pāli Canon of the Theravāda tradition, these teachings emphasize the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, dependent origination (paṭiccasamuppāda), and the cultivation of non-clinging.

Unlike later schools, early Buddhism avoids metaphysical speculation, focusing instead on suffering and its cessation. It is characterized by simplicity, monastic discipline, and a pragmatic approach to awakening. The aim is not belief but transformation—of view, of conduct, and of mind.

Buddhist Society of WA Early Buddhism Course | Ajahn Brahmali & Ajahn Sujato | Buddhist Society of Western Australia