How Do You Spell THAMMAYUT NIKAYA?

Pronunciation: [θˈame͡ɪˌʌt nˈɪke͡ɪə] (IPA)

Thammayut Nikaya is a school of Theravada Buddhism that originated in Thailand. The spelling of this word can be broken down into IPA phonetic transcription as "tʰʌmmeɪjʊt nɪkaɪə". The initial "th" sound is aspirated, indicated by the superscript "h". The first "a" is pronounced as a schwa sound, while the second "a" is pronounced as a long "a" sound. The "m" and "j" sounds are pronounced consecutively, without a break in between. The last syllable "nikaya" has a stress on the first syllable and is pronounced as "nih-kah-yuh".

THAMMAYUT NIKAYA Meaning and Definition

1. Thammayut Nikaya is a term derived from the Pali language, meaning the "Order of Thammayut". It refers to a sect or monastic tradition within Theravada Buddhism, which is predominantly practiced in Southeast Asian countries, particularly in Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.

   The Thammayut Nikaya was established in the 19th century by King Mongkut, also known as Rama IV, in an effort to reform and purify the existing Buddhist monastic system. The primary objective of this order was to restore stricter adherence to the monastic rules and to promote a more austere and disciplined way of life for the monks.

   Unlike the broader and less rigorous Mahanikaya sect, the Thammayut Nikaya emphasizes a stricter interpretation of the Vinaya (monastic code) and places a greater emphasis on meditation and contemplation. Monks belonging to this sect often engage in intensive meditation practices and follow a more ascetic lifestyle.

   The Thammayut Nikaya has had a significant impact not only within the monastic community but also within the broader religious and social spheres of the countries where it is practiced. Its influence can be seen in the development of meditation centers, study programs, and the spread of its teachings to lay followers.

   In conclusion, the Thammayut Nikaya can be defined as a specific monastic order within Theravada Buddhism that emerged in the 19th century as a reform movement, focusing on the strict observance of monastic rules and promoting a disciplined way of life rooted in meditation and asceticism.

Etymology of THAMMAYUT NIKAYA

The term "Thammayut Nikaya" is derived from the Pali language. Pali is an ancient Indian language closely related to Sanskrit and is commonly used in Theravada Buddhist scriptures.

"Thammayut" is a Pali word that translates to "in conformity with the Dhamma". In Buddhism, Dhamma (also spelled Dharma) refers to the teachings of the Buddha and the path to enlightenment.

"Nikaya" is another Pali word that generally means "group", "collection", or "order". In the context of Buddhism, Nikaya refers to one of the Buddhist monastic orders or sects.

Hence, "Thammayut Nikaya" can be understood as "the monastic order in conformity with the Dhamma" or "the group that adheres to the teachings of the Buddha".