Exploring the Diversity of Buddhism: The Eighteen Schools

Buddhism, one of the world's major religions, has evolved over centuries into a rich tapestry of thought and practice. Among its many interpretations, the historical "Eighteen Schools" hold a special place, representing early divisions within the Buddhist community. These schisms, which emerged as monks and scholars debated the teachings of the Buddha, contributed significantly to the development of Buddhist doctrine and practice.

The Origin of the Schisms

After the Buddha’s passing into Parinirvana, his teachings were preserved through oral transmission. However, as the community (Sangha) expanded and spread geographically, differences in understanding and emphasis led to significant doctrinal splits. The most notable early division was between the Mahāsāṅghikas, who highlighted the transcendent nature of the Buddha, and the Sthaviras, later associated with the Theravāda tradition, who maintained a strict adherence to monastic discipline and the early teachings.

The Eighteen Schools

The evolution of these early debates eventually gave rise to the following schools:

From the Mahāsāṅghika Tradition

1. Mahāsāṅghikas
   Advocated a liberal approach to monastic rules and emphasized the Buddha’s supramundane qualities.
2. Ekavyāvahārikas
   Focused on the unity and singular truth inherent in the Buddha's teachings.
3. Lokottaravādins
   Held that all the acts and expressions of the Buddha transcended ordinary experience.
4. Gokulikas (or Kukkuṭikas)
   Known for their distinctive interpretation regarding the physical presence of the Buddha.
5. Bahussutiyas
   Emphasized the value of extensive study and understanding of the numerous scriptures.
6. Prajñaptivādins
   Concentrated on the doctrine of "designations," proposing that all phenomena are simply labels.
7. Chaitikas
   Associated with the Chaitiya caves, these monks were prominent in the Deccan region, contributing to regional doctrinal development.
8. Aparaśailas
   An eastern offshoot of the Chaitikas, they were known for their unique interpretations of Buddhist doctrine.
9. Uttaraśailas
   Operating in the northern regions, they shared similarities with the Aparaśailas but developed distinct doctrinal nuances.

From the Sthavira Tradition

10. Sthaviras
    Focused on strict adherence to the Vinaya (monastic discipline) and the early teachings, maintaining a conservative approach to the Buddha’s doctrines.
11. Sarvāstivādins
    Advocated the view that all dharmas (phenomena) exist in the past, present, and future, a perspective that significantly influenced later philosophical debates.
12. Vātsīputrīyas
    Known for their theory of "Pudgala" or the nature of the self, a controversial stance in early Buddhist thought.
13. Dharmottarīyas
    Shared similarities with the Sarvāstivādins but introduced subtle variations in their interpretation of reality.
14. Bhadrayānīyas
    Although less is known about them, they likely emphasized ethical teachings and moral conduct.
15. Sammatīyas
    A group related to the Sarvāstivāda tradition, with particular views on the nature of consciousness and its implications.
16. Sannagarikas
    While historical details remain scarce, they are thought to have placed a strong emphasis on community life and mutual support within the monastic order.
17. Mahīśāsakas
    Recognized for their strict observance of the Vinaya and a rigorous approach to ethical discipline.
18. Dharmaguptakas and Kāśyapīyas
    These groups, sometimes mentioned together, had their distinct versions of the monastic code (Vinaya) and offered unique interpretations of Buddhist cosmology.
19. Sautrāntikas
    Though often associated with the Sthavira lineage, they are notable for rejecting the extensive Abhidharma texts, focusing solely on the Sutras as the foundation of the Buddha’s teachings.

Impact and Legacy

While many of these schools are primarily of historical interest today, their debates and doctrinal innovations have left an enduring legacy on Buddhist philosophy. Their discussions on the nature of reality, the role of monastic discipline, and the interpretation of the Buddha’s teachings have significantly influenced both the Theravāda and Mahāyāna traditions. The diversity of views represented by the Eighteen Schools underscores Buddhism’s capacity to evolve and adapt, enriching its spiritual and philosophical heritage over time.