Arhat
An arhat is a type of enlightened person in Buddhism. They have achieved enlightenment by following the teachings of a Buddha. Many of the Buddha's disciples became arhats.
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The importance of the arhat is different depending on the Buddhist school.
The aim of becoming an arhat is to seek perfect calm and understanding in one's mind.
Meaning change
"Arhat" is a Sanskrit word. It means "someone who deserves to be to honored."[1]
Theravada change
The ultimate goal in Theravada Buddhism is to become an arhat. Someone who becomes an arhat is the same as someone who attains enlightenment. The Buddha is also sometimes called an "arhat."
Mahayana change
In Mahayana Buddhism, bodhisattvas are seen as better than arhats. A bodhisattva will eventually become a Buddha, who can teach all living beings. An arhat can teach too, but only achieves enlightenment for him or herself.[2]
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