Basic Points Unifying the Theravada and the Mahayana

Presented to the first convening of the 

World Buddha Sangha Council

in Sri Lanka in 1967

1:

The Buddha is our only master.

2:

We take refuge in the Buddha, the Dhamma [Dharma], and the Sangha.

3:

We do not believe this world is created and ruled by a God.

4:

Following the example of the Buddha, who is the embodiment of Great Compassion (maha karuna) and Great Wisdom (maha prajna), we consider that the purpose of life is to develop compassion for all living beings without discrimination and to work for their good, happiness, and peace; and to develop wisdom leading to the realization of Ultimate Truth.

5:

We accept the Four Noble Truths, namely Dukkha, the Arising of Dukkha, the Cessation of Dukkha, and the Path leading to the Cessation of Dukkha; and the universal law of Cause and Effect as taught in the pratitya samutpada (Conditioned Genesis or Dependent Origination).

6:

We understand, according to the Buddha, that all conditioned things (samskara) are impermanent (anitya) and dukkha, and that all conditioned and unconditioned things (dharma) are without self (anatma).

7:

We accept the Thirty-seven Qualities conducive to Enlightenment (bodhipaksa dharma) as different aspects of the Path taught by the Buddha leading to Enlightenment.

8:

There are three ways of attaining bodhi or Enlightenment, according to the ability and capacity of each individual: namely as a disciple (sravaka), as a Pratyeka Buddha and as a Samyak sam Buddha (Perfectly and Fully Enlightened Buddha). We accept it as the highest, noblest, and most heroic to follow the career of a Bodhisattva and to become a Samyak sam Buddha in order to save others.

9:

We admit that in different countries there are differences with regard to the life of Buddhist monks, popular Buddhist beliefs and practices, rites and ceremonies, customs and habits. These external forms and expressions should not be confused with the essential teachings of the Buddha.

---Venerable Walpola Rahula---