The Tipitaka, also known as the Pali Canon, is the traditional scripture of Theravada Buddhism, consisting of three "baskets" or collections: the Vinaya Pitaka (rules for monastic discipline), the Sutta Pitaka (discourses of the Buddha), and the Abhidhamma Pitaka (philosophical and doctrinal analysis). It serves as a comprehensive guide to the teachings and practices of Buddhism, preserving the core principles and ethical guidelines. The Tipitaka is written in Pali and is considered one of the oldest surviving Buddhist texts.