SUTTAPIṬAKA
Basket of Discourses
The Sutta Piṭaka, the second division of the Tipitaka, consists chiefly of instructive discourses delivered by the Buddha to both the Sangha and the laity on various occasions. A few discourses, expounded by disciples such as the Venerables Sāriputta, Moggallāna, and Ánanda, are incorporated and are accorded as much veneration as the word of the Buddha himself, since they were approved by him.
VINAYAPITAKA
Basket of Monastic Law
The texts on Monastic Law (vinaya) detail the lifestyle, rules, and procedures for Buddhist monks and nuns. They provide the guidelines for Buddhist monastics to this day, and in addition, paint a detailed and vivid picture of everyday life in ancient India.
ABHIDHAMMAPIṬAKA
Basket of Systematic Treatises
Abhidhamma texts are systematic summaries and analyses of the teachings drawn from the earlier discourses. The Abhidhamma (spelled abhidharma in Sanskrit) is intended for advanced students who have mastered the teachings of the discourses.