A History of Indian Literature v2.c19.s3.t2.110
A History of Indian Literature v2.c19.s3.t2.110
- Language
- English
v2.c19.s3.t2.110
³ The Theras and Therīs are the male and female "elders," primarily the first and most prominent male and female disciples of Buddha himself, and then those members of the order who were venerable by reason of their age and still more by their moral and spiritual qualities. Though Thera, fem. therī, Sanskrit sthavira, means "old," the title was determined rather by those qualities which inspire reverence, than by age or seniority. There was neither an honorary office nor privileges or duties of any kind in connection with this honorary title. *Cf.* T. W. *Rhys Davids*, ERE, Vol. 5, p. 252 f.