Development of the Concept of an Arahat in Theravāda Buddhism Arahat in Theravada Buddhism
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This paper explores the development of the concept of an Arahat, its characteristics and qualities in Theravāda school of Buddhism. One who eradicated of all cankers (āsavā) such as desire for sensual pleasure (kāmāsava), desire for becoming (bhavāsava), and ignorance (avijjāsava) attained arahatship. A person who has reached the fourth and the highest stage of enlightenment, having eradication of all defilements (kilesas). In this paper discussed about the development of the concept of Arahat since pre-Buddhistic period till today. Theravāda school of Buddhism has three kinds of attainments can be reached such as Sammāsambuddhas (Supremely Enlightened Ones), Pacceka-Buddhas (Hermit Buddhas), and Arahats (Enlightened disciples) having fulfilled the ten (pārāmitā).
An Arahat also known as ‘sāvaka’ in Theravāda Buddhism. In Theravāda Buddhist tradition, one can become a Buddha, a Pacceka-Buddha, or an Arahat which based on to their wishes. Having fulfilled the ten perfections (pārāmitā) for one time, he become an Arahat. It is a gradual and systematic spiritual development for every individual endowment and clearly understands the way to the destruction of cankers (āsavas) and attain the highest bliss (nibbāna).
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