Comparing Sarvastivada and Theravada Buddhism: Philosophical and Practical Perspectives

The ancient traditions of Buddhism have been diversified through multiple schools, each with unique doctrines and philosophical underpinnings. Among these, Sarvastivada and Theravada Buddhism stand as two significant examples. This article delves into the main differences between these two schools, focusing on their views on the existence of dhammas and the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice.

Existence of Dhammas in Sarvastivada Buddhism

The Sarvastivada school is renowned for its distinctive belief in the dhammas, which are incredibly tiny units of mind and matter that make up all existent realities. According to this school, dhammas exist not only in the present but also in the past and the future. This view provides a theoretical framework for understanding how change can persist across different time periods. Contrary to the alternative idea that only present dhammas exist, the Sarvastivada perspective suggests that present dhammas are continuously connected to their past and future counterparts. By positing that dhammas exist in all three timeframes, the Sarvastivada school addresses the question of why present dhammas do not appear as entirely random.

The Theravada Perspective

In contrast, the Theravada school emphasizes the idea that dhammas give rise to the next set of dhammas before they themselves disappear. This process is continuous and linear. The Theravada viewpoint can therefore be seen as a ‘before-and-after’ sequence, where each dhamma gives way to the next in a straight, unbroken line. This belief system underpins a different way of understanding continuity and change, divergent from the Sarvastivada model.

Historical and Practicical Implications

The historical development of these schools provides insights into their long-term influence. Historically, it may seem that Theravada Buddhism 'won' because it is the prevalent form of Buddhism in many countries today, while Sarvastivada Buddhism has largely disappeared. However, this is largely attributed to the early Theravadans sending missionaries to Sri Lanka, which preserved and spread their teachings.

Philosophical Discrepancies Between Sarvastivada and Theravada

The biggest differences between Sarvastivada and Mahayana versions of Buddhism are found in their philosophical and practical approaches. Sarvastivada is closely associated with what the Buddha directly taught, while Mahayana Buddhism introduces additional teachings and concepts that deviate from these original teachings.

Ultimate Goal of Nirvana

A prime example of this is the ultimate goal of Nirvana. According to the original teachings of the Buddha, achieving Nirvana was the ultimate aim for all beings. Theravada Buddhism strictly adheres to this interpretation, whereas Mahayana Buddhism introduces a more expansive view. It teaches that one should forego personal enlightenment and instead take the Bodhisattva vow. This vow obliges practitioners to achieve enlightenment only when all other sentient beings have done so as well, a concept that is fundamentally at odds with the Theravada perspective.

Hybridization with Non-Buddhist Practices

A significant disparity between Mahayana and Theravada is the integration of non-Buddhist beliefs and practices. Many schools within Mahayana Buddhism have incorporated beliefs and rituals from other religions, leading to a blending of traditions. This sometimes includes practices that do not align with the original Buddhist teachings. For example, in some Mahayana temples, practitioners may encounter images of gods and goddesses, a practice that is not consistent with the core tenets of Buddhism which advocate the pursuit of understanding and cessation of delusions.

Conclusion

The philosophical and practical differences between Sarvastivada and Theravada Buddhism not only highlight the diversity within the broader field of Buddhism but also reflect the evolution and adaptability of this ancient tradition. While Sarvastivada maintains a strict adherence to the principle of the existence of past, present, and future dhammas, Theravada emphasizes the continuous process of dhamma generation. These distinctions continue to shape and inform the diverse Buddhist communities around the world.