|
||
Definition: Although Buddhists disagree on a number of issues, they all agree on the fact that there have been many Buddhas throught history and there will be many in the future. The next Buddha expected in this world is known as Maitreya. Buddhists believe that he is currently waiting in Tushita, a sort of heaven, until the time is right.
Being in Tushita, however, does not mean that Maitreya is passive - members of the Mahayana tradition believe that he, like all boddhisattvas, is active in the world, helping people to improve their lives. Anticipation of his return result in a Buddhist version of millenarianism. Many Buddhists pray that, when they are reborn, they will be reborn at the time Maitreya is present on the Earth so that they will have the opportunity to finally reach enlightenment through studying under him.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: Metteyya (Pali)
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
What is Theism?
What is the difference between monotheism and monolatry? Between pantheism and panentheism? How about between animism and shamanism? Or theism and deism? What the heck is henotheism? For that matter, what is and is not a religion?What is Religion?
A system of human beliefs, ideals and practices which is harder to define than it may at first appear.
