Theos-Talk Archives (February 2005 Message tt00641)

"Arhat" is a Buddhist term. For instance, at

http://www.answers.com/topic/arhat

we read that it is a noun from Buddhism meaning "One who has attained
enlightenment."

Or at:

http://www.spiritwalk.org/buddhistglossary.htm

we read that it is "A Buddhist monk who is free from all illusions and who
has achieved personal enlightenment. This term is used primarily in
Theravada Buddhism."

And a third definition at:

http://uwacadweb.uwyo.edu/religionet/er/buddhism/BGLOSSRY.HTM

It is "A term used primarily in Theravada Buddhism to signify a person who
has fulfilled its ultimate goal, the attainment of nirvana. Upon death, the
arhat will become extinguished. The arhat, as an individual, has attained
full enlightenment, peace and freedom. This should be contrasted to Mahayana
Buddhism, in which the ultimate goal is to become a bodhisattva--someone who
uses the power they gain from enlightenment to help others."

Eldon

> samblo@cs.com wrote:
>
> Jerry,
> Thanks for your comments. Might I ask which Buddhist Order 
> recognize those you mentioned as "Arhat" as Arhats?
>
>John