Question

Panit's father teaches him that the Dharma is important to learn because The Buddha was the greatest teacher. He does not believe in the supernatural but thinks that if there were ever a human to have lived the best life possible, The Buddha is that one. What branch of Buddhism does Panit's father MOST likely follow?

a. Pure Land Buddhism
b. Theravada Buddhism
c. Mahayana Buddhism
d. Zen Buddhism

Answer 1

Panit's father most likely follows Theravada Buddhism, which focuses on personal enlightenment and the original teachings of the Buddha without reliance on supernatural forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

Panit's father seems to follow the Theravada Buddhism tradition. This ancient branch is known as the Teaching of the Elders, which is more conservative and attempts to adhere closely to the original teachings of the Buddha. Theravada emphasizes personal enlightenment through meditation and understanding, rather than reliance on intervention from bodhisattvas or supernatural forces. Given that Panit's father regards the Buddha as an exemplary human rather than as a deity or supernatural being and emphasizes learning the Dharma as the Buddha taught, his beliefs align closely with the fundamental principles of Theravada Buddhism.