There are many different schools of Buddhism, but the two most popular are Mahayana and Hinayana. While both share some similarities, there are also key differences between the two branches. If you’re interested in learning more about Buddhism or want to know which branch might be a better fit for you, keep reading. We’ll take a closer look at Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism and explore some of the major differences between the two traditions.
What is Mahayana Buddhism?
Mahayana Buddhism is a branch of Buddhism that emphasizes Bodhisattvas, which are beings that are dedicated to achieving Nirvana but have postponed it in order to help others. Mahayana Buddhists believe that the path to Nirvana is through helping others and that everyone has the potential to become a Buddha. Mahayana Buddhism is practiced throughout East Asia and Southeast Asia, and it is the dominant form of Buddhism in China, Japan, Korea, Tibet, and parts of Vietnam. Mahayana Buddhism is also sometimes known as Northern Buddhism, in contrast to Theravada Buddhism, which is sometimes known as Southern Buddhism.
What is Hinayana Buddhism?
Hinayana Buddhism is a branch of the Buddhist faith that emphasizes individual salvation.
- Hinayana literally means “small vehicle,” in contrast to the “great vehicle” of Mahayana Buddhism. Hinayana followers believe that it is only through one’s own effort that one can achieve nirvana, or enlightenment.
- As such, Hinayana Buddhists place great emphasis on personal morality and ethical conduct. Hinayana Buddhism is also characterized by its devotion to the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama.
- Hinayana Buddhists revere Siddhartha Gautama as a teacher and role model, and they strive to emulate his example in their own lives. Hinayana Buddhism is the dominant form of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand.
Difference between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism
Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism are the two main schools of thought in Buddhism.
- Mahayana Buddhism, also known as Northern Buddhism, is the dominant form of Buddhism in East Asia. Hinayana Buddhism, also known as Southern Buddhism, is the dominant form of Buddhism in Southeast Asia.
- The two schools of thought are similar in many ways, but there are also some key differences.
- Mahayana Buddhists focus on the Mahayana sutras, which emphasize the importance of compassion and altruism.
- Hinayana Buddhists focus on the Pali Canon, which emphasizes the importance of individual salvation.
- Mahayana Buddhism also tends to be more inclusive than Hinayana Buddhism, welcoming people from all walks of life into its fold.
- Hinayana Buddhism, on the other hand, is more exclusive, often requiring monks to take a vow of celibacy.
Ultimately, both Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism share a common goal: to help individuals achieve Nirvana. However, they go about this goal in different ways.
Conclusion
It’s important to understand the difference between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism in order to develop a more complete understanding of this complex religion. While both sects have similarities, Mahayana Buddhism takes on a more universalist approach that is open to all people, regardless of their spiritual beliefs or practices. Hinayana Buddhism is narrower in its focus and is geared toward those who are looking to attain personal liberation from Samsara.
