What does a vihara refer to in Buddhism?

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In Buddhism, a vihara refers to a Buddhist monastery, which serves as a residence for monks and a center for meditation and teaching. Viharas often encompass various facilities that support monastic life, including areas for prayer, study, and communal living, aligning with the practices and community life central to Buddhism. These structures hold significant importance in the sustenance of Buddhist communities, providing a space where followers can engage deeply with their spiritual practice.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different aspects of Buddhist practice. A type of meditation technique describes methods used for meditation but does not denote a physical place. Scripture recitation points to the act of reading or chanting Buddhist texts, which is a practice but not a location. A festival or celebration refers to specific days of observance or events significant to Buddhist culture rather than a monastic structure. Thus, the definition of vihara as a monastery is essential for understanding its role in the Buddhist tradition.

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