Theravāda is the oldest surviving tradition of Buddhism, whose name means “the teaching of the elders.” It is based on the original teachings of Gautama Buddha and draws from the earliest preserved Buddhist texts written in the Pāli language (Tipiṭaka). The tradition emphasizes personal practice, ethical conduct, mental cultivation, and direct insight into the nature of reality. A central role is played by the monastic community of monks and nuns, who preserve and transmit the teaching. Today, Theravāda is primarily practiced in Southeast Asia, but its path is open to anyone seeking to understand the mind, suffering, and the way to liberation.
In the Theravāda tradition, the Tipiṭaka (“Three Baskets”) holds a central place as the oldest preserved collection of the teachings of Gautama Buddha. It includes discourses (suttas), monastic discipline (vinaya), and systematic analysis (abhidhamma), forming a complete framework for both study and practice. The texts are not regarded merely as historical records, but as a living source of the Dhamma. Theravāda emphasizes distinguishing between the original teaching and later cultural forms, while integrating study with direct personal experience.
The monastic community (Saṅgha), established by Gautama Buddha, is an essential part of the Theravāda tradition. It includes both monks (bhikkhu) and nuns (bhikkhunī) who dedicate their lives to the practice of the Dhamma, discipline, and the path to liberation. The Saṅgha not only preserves the teachings but lives and transmits them in practice. The relationship between the monastic and lay communities is based on mutual support and trust. An important aspect today is also the revival of the bhikkhunī lineage, reconnecting with the original tradition and reopening the full path of practice for women.
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Aluvihāra – the place where the Teaching was preserved
This page presents Aluvihāra in Sri Lanka — the place where the Buddha’s Teaching was first written down and preserved for future generations. It describes the historical circumstances that led to the creation of the written Tipiṭaka during a time of famine, invasion, and decline in the oral transmission of the Dhamma. The text highlights Aluvihāra as a symbol of the transition from fragile memory to lasting preservation of the Teaching. At the same time, it reminds us that the Dhamma is not merely a text, but a living practice to be heard, contemplated, and directly realized.
Theravāda today is a living tradition rooted in the early teachings of Gautama Buddha, expressed through different cultural forms. Its practice includes both the original Dhamma preserved in texts and the traditions of specific regions. A key aspect is the ability to distinguish between what leads to direct understanding and what is cultural expression.
Support of the venerable Bhikkhunī Visuddhi and activities of the Association Karuṇā Sevena:
Bank account for donations:
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Account number: 6855679001/5500
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Account holder: Karuṇā Sevena Association
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IBAN: CZ49 5500 0000 0068 5567 9001
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SWIFT: RZBCCZPP
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Address: Slezská 3, 796 01 Prostějov, Czech Republic
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Email: karuna.sevena.en@gmail.com
The funds are used to cover the basic monastic needs of the venerable bhikkhunī Visuddhi
such as robe, food, medicine and abode this also covers transportation, accommodation, air tickets, etc.) distribution of books,
the furnishing of the ārāma Karuṇā Sevena, insurance, utility bills, etc. Tax-deductible in the Czech Republic.
Please state the reason for the donation with the following note "For the Association Karuna Sevena."
Neither of the above is a public collection, and therefore we ask all donors to add their contact information to their gift, so that we can issue a donation agreement contract or a donation receipt. We thank all the donors.
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