Vattaya

Vattayan Buddhism
Vattayan central deity of death and destruction
Classification	Theravada Buddhism
Language	Ther, Arunid
Founder	Lai Kin Kut
Origin	C. 350 AD Wat Vishran, Thervala
Aid organization	The Flaming Sword of Mercy

Vattaya (Ther: วัฒยา, lit. 'of the cycle') is a school of Theravada Buddhism that originated in Thervala during the 4th century AD. Unlike other Theravada traditions, Vattaya developed in isolation and remains exclusive to Thervala. It has been shaped by Thervala's historically militaristic culture. Instead of rejecting violence, Vattaya integrates it into its spiritual framework, teaching that conflict and struggle are inevitable aspects of samsara. Vattayan doctrine holds that suffering in a stagnant life is a worse fate than death, and thus, guiding others toward their next incarnation is seen as an act of compassion. Vattayan theology promotes what is known as Spiritual Accelerationism. It views death not as a tragedy but as a necessary and even sacred part of the karmic cycle known as Just Killing. Abortion, euthanasia, and the death penalty are not merely permitted but sanctified, considered essential acts to hasten the rebirth of souls and provide them new opportunities for karmic redemption. These acts are conducted under the supervision of ordained monks. However, suicide is strictly forbidden, as it is seen as an act of arrogance, suggesting that one has determined their own readiness to move forward in the karmic cycle. Vattya's close ties to the Royal Ther Military reinforces its historically militant culture, with many monks undergoing military service as part of their spiritual training. Some high ranking officers even retire into monastic life, continuing to serve in a religious capacity.

Vattaya has played a vital role in shaping Ther history and identity, but its controversial views, particularly its veneration of war crimes, have drawn international criticism. Despite this, it remains the dominant religious tradition of Thervala, with its teachings deeply ingrained in both the state and society.

History

Buddhism was first introduced to the indigenous Ther people in 300 BC by Buddhist princes fleeing persecution under the Zoroastrian Arunid Emperor. As these exiled princes established themselves in Thervala, they began the Arunidization of the early Ther peoples. This made the early Ther associate Buddhism with intellectualism and civilization.

The buddhist Arunids successfully converted the majority of the Ther people, who had previously practiced Ther Folk Religion. Elements of these indigenous beliefs were gradually incorporated into the Sthaviravada Buddhism practiced by the princes. This early Ther Sthaviravada emphasized monastic life and piety, closely aligning with the Vishran dynasty's caste system.

Under this system the Ther laity made up the majority of the population, while the clergy was restricted exclusively to ethnic Arunids. Over time, Ther Sthaviravada developed a racially stratified doctrine, asserting that ethnic Thers existed on a lower plane of existence and had to undergo greater spiritual labor to achieve rebirth as an Arunid.

As the benevolence of the Arunid monarchy declined, resentment grew among the Ther laypeople. Discontent with their exclusion from religious authority, some began to reinterpret Buddhist teachings and establish their own independent clergies, laying the foundation for culturally Ther Buddhism in Thervala.