Nirvāṇa (Sanskrit: Nirvāṇa; Pali: Nibbāna) is a key concept in Buddhist philosophy, often considered the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice. The term is notoriously difficult to define precisely, partly because its meaning can vary between Buddhist traditions and philosophical systems. Generally, however, Nirvana refers to a state of perfect peace and liberation, free from suffering and the cycle of birth and death (Samsara).

`Nirvāṇa`

Etymology

The word 'Nirvana' literally means 'blowing out' or 'extinguishing,' which suggests the cessation of the flames of desire, hatred, and ignorance that fuel the cycle of suffering and rebirth. When an individual attains Nirvana, they are said to have "awakened" to the true nature of reality and are thus released from the karmic cycle.

In Relation to The Four Noble Truths

Nirvāṇa is closely related to The Four Noble Truths, which form the foundation of Buddhist teaching. The Third Noble Truth specifically states that cessation of suffering (dukkha) is attainable, and this cessation is identified as Nirvana. The Fourth Noble Truth outlines the path to achieve this liberation, known as The Eightfold Path.

Theravāda Perspective

In Theravāda Buddhism, the oldest extant Buddhist tradition, Nirvana is often presented in two stages:

Nirvana in this life: The individual attains a deep insight into the nature of reality, culminating in liberation from Samsara. Such a person is known as an Arhat.
Parinirvana: This is the final passing away of an Arhat, where there's no longer any possibility of return to the cycle of birth and death.

Mahāyāna Perspective

In Mahāyāna Buddhism, which includes traditions like Zen and Tibetan Buddhism, the concept of Nirvana can be more fluid. The Mahāyāna ideal often shifts from individual liberation to the Bodhisattva ideal—a being who postpones full enlightenment to help all sentient beings achieve liberation. Nirvana and samsara are often seen as two sides of the same coin; thus, the ultimate goal is not to escape the world but to realize its empty nature and thereby transform it.

Buddhist Lexicon

Buddhist Scriptures

The Buddhist Scriptures originated in India in the 6th century before Christ, then spread throughout Asia - including Nepal , Sri Lanka , Myanmar , Thailand , Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Tibet , China , Japan, Korea, Mongolia, Bhutan, Indonesia, Taiwan & Singapore — giving rise to various sacred traditions and texts.

Buddhism

Buddhist

Mahāyāna Buddhism

Zen Buddhism

Tibetan Buddhism

The Tipiṭaka serves as the foundational canon for Theravāda Buddhism.