Based on the tradition of the "theras" or elder monks, this 2500 years old conservative Buddhism is best understood as a single lineage based on a comparatively small body of texts which is popularly known as the Triple Gems preserved in Pali language (similar to Sanskrit language). Theravada Buddhism was introduced into most of South and South East Asia from India, which is distinct form the Mahayana Buddhism introduced into Tibet and China.

A close symbolic relationship between the Theravada Buddhists monks and the lay people exist today, which is very similar to that existing at the time of Gautama Buddha around BC 600. The monks strictly obey the traditional rules prescribed for monks and nuns upholding the original teachings of Buddha. Theravada Buddhism is actively practiced in the countries of Sri Lanka, Thailand, Laos and Burma (Myanmar) by millions of lay people.

Theravada Buddhism emphasizes the rationality, individual effort and self-discipline necessary for liberation form Samsara or the cycle of rebirth conditioned world. It promotes the three aspects of spirituality i.e. through Dhana (generosity), Sila (morality), and Bhavana (mental exercise development or meditation). The most beneficial for personal liberation enlightenment from Samsara is the method of Vipasana or Insight Meditation which forms the practical expression of Bhavana.