Theravada Buddhism, which claims strict adherence to the teachings of the Buddha, recognizes saints (arhats) as people who have attained nirvana (the state of bliss) and hence salvation from samsara (the compulsory circle of rebirth) through their efforts. Mahayana Buddhism rejected the Theravada belief that only monks may attain salvation and taught that there is a path to redemption for all people, irrespective of their social standing. Mahayana views Buddhas and bodhisattvas (“Buddhas-to-be”) as saints who aid others in salvation. Tibetan Buddhism accepts living saints, such as the Dalai Lamas, who are seen as incarnations (tulkus) of past saints or deities.