Difference Between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism
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What is Mahayana?
Mahayana is a major school of Buddhism that originated in India and later spread to China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries. It embraces a wide range of doctrines and practices emphasizing compassion and the pursuit of enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
Examples of Mahayana
Some examples of Mahayana Buddhism include Zen Buddhism, Pure Land Buddhism, and Tibetan Buddhism. These different branches have their unique practices and teachings, but all share the common goal of attaining enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings.
What is Hinayana?
Hinayana is a term used by Mahayana practitioners to refer to the early schools of Buddhism that existed before the emergence of Mahayana. It is a derogatory term and is considered pejorative by some, as it suggests a lesser vehicle for attaining enlightenment.
Examples of Hinayana
The term Hinayana is not commonly used by Buddhists today, as it is considered offensive. However, it refers to the Theravada tradition, which is the only surviving representative of the early Buddhist schools. Theravada is practiced predominantly in Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka, and parts of South Asia.
Differences Table
| Difference Area | Mahayana | Hinayana |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Teachings | Advocates a broader scope of teachings, including various sutras and philosophical texts. | Focuses mainly on the Pali Canon, the earliest Buddhist scriptures. |
| Goal | Aspires to achieve Buddhahood to help all sentient beings attain liberation. | Aims for personal liberation and becoming an Arhat. |
| Role of Bodhisattvas | Emphasizes the importance of Bodhisattvas, enlightened beings who delay their own final liberation in order to assist others. | Does not prioritize the concept of Bodhisattvas. |
| Devotional Practices | Includes various devotional practices, such as chanting, meditation, and making offerings to Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. | Primarily focused on meditation and personal development. |
| View on Arhats | Considers Arhats as individuals who have attained personal liberation but continue to be subject to rebirth. | Views Arhats as individuals who have achieved liberation from the cycle of rebirth. |
| Affirmation of Self | Teaches the concept of “Sunyata” (Emptiness), which denies the existence of an inherent self or essence. | Reaffirms the existence of a personal self. |
| Approach to Lay Followers | Encourages lay followers to actively participate in Buddhist practices and engage in compassionate actions. | Places more emphasis on monasticism and renunciation. |
| Scriptural Languages | Uses various languages, including Sanskrit, Chinese, Tibetan, and Japanese. | Primarily relies on Pali, an ancient Indian language. |
| View on Buddha | Recognizes multiple Buddhas and considers them as manifestations of the ultimate reality. | Reveres Gautama Buddha as the supreme and final teacher. |
| Geographical Distribution | Widespread in East Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. | Mainly practiced in Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka, and parts of South Asia. |
Conclusion
In summary, Mahayana and Hinayana represent two major branches of Buddhism with different focuses and approaches. Mahayana Buddhism encompasses a broader range of teachings, emphasizes compassion, and aims for Buddhahood to benefit all beings. On the other hand, Hinayana, represented by Theravada, focuses on personal liberation as an Arhat, adheres to the Pali Canon, and places more emphasis on meditation. These differences contribute to the diversity and richness of Buddhist traditions.
People Also Ask:
Q: What are the main differences between Mahayana and Hinayana?
A: The main differences include the scope of teachings, the goal of attainment, the emphasis on Bodhisattvas, devotional practices, views on Arhats, affirmation of self, approach to lay followers, scriptural languages, view on Buddha, and geographical distribution.
Q: Which countries practice Mahayana Buddhism?
A: Mahayana Buddhism is practiced in various countries such as China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Tibet.
Q: What is the goal of Mahayana Buddhism?
A: The goal of Mahayana Buddhism is to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings and become a Buddha.
Q: Is Hinayana a derogatory term?
A: Yes, Hinayana is considered a derogatory term and offensive by some as it implies a lesser vehicle for attaining enlightenment.
Q: What is the difference between Theravada and Hinayana?
A: Theravada is the only surviving representative of the early Buddhist schools and is considered a form of Hinayana Buddhism. However, the term Hinayana is pejorative and not commonly used.
