five-period classification of the Buddha's teachings
A Tendai (Tiantai) doctrinal system that divides the Buddha's 50-year teaching career into five chronological periods. Often discussed alongside 五時八教. Used in academic or sectarian Buddhist contexts.
See also: 五時八教
In the Tendai sect, the Buddha's teachings are classified into the five-period teaching.
The five-period teaching consists of the Avatamsaka, Agama, Vaipulya, Prajnaparamita, and Lotus-Nirvana periods.