The Pali Canon, often referred to as the Tipitaka, is the authoritative collection of scriptures in the Theravada Buddhist tradition. Composed in the ancient Pali language, it encompasses an extensive body of texts divided into three "baskets" or sections: the Vinaya Pitaka, detailing monastic rules; the Sutta Pitaka, comprising discourses attributed to the Buddha and his close disciples; and the Abhidhamma Pitaka, offering systematic philosophical and doctrinal analysis. Unlike later canonical works in other Buddhist traditions, the Pali Canon is considered the closest reflection of the earliest teachings of the historical Buddha. It provides a profound reservoir for practice and understanding, guiding meditators through the intricacies of ethical conduct, mental training, and wisdom necessary for liberation. Delving into these texts, one encounters a rich tapestry of the Buddha's path, inviting a journey of deep inquiry and transformation.

See also: dependent origination, insight meditation, universal truth, relative truth, noble truth