Arhat – A perfect person. A person who has become enlightened

(Pronounced ahr-huht)

To remember the meaning of the Buddhist term Arhat, use the following mnemonic:

The army had a new hat (arhat) designed, but it was only worn by the most perfect soldiers who were enlightened by years of experience.

Arhat means "one who is worthy" – a "perfected person" who has gained insight into the true nature of existence and entered the state of nirvana (spiritual enlightenment).

According to Buddhist belief, at death an arhat will escape the cycle of rebirth and death, which is the ultimate aim.

With very few exceptions, a man or woman can become an arhat only while they are a monk or nun.