Sixteen Arhats: The Disciples Who Preserve the Buddha’s Teachings

Individuals who have attained enlightenment in the Buddhist tradition are known as Arhats, also known as Arahants. They are thought to have attained Buddhism's ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara).The Buddha's teachings, particularly the Noble Eightfold Path, are thought to have guided the Arhats to this state. This entails gaining insight into the true nature of reality and purging the defilements and cravings that cause pain. Arhats are frequently portrayed as having conquered the three poisons of ignorance, attachment, and aversion.There are many different levels of Arhats, each with varying degrees of enlightenment, according to traditional Buddhist teachings. Some Arhats are said to have attained enlightenment gradually over many lifetimes, while others may have done so suddenly, through a flash of insight. In some traditions, the Arhats are regarded as inferior to the Buddhas, who are thought to have attained a higher level of enlightenment.