Difference Between Mahayana and Hinayana
Mahayana tradition’s central tenet is that all living beings are capable of separating themselves from life’s suffering. According to Mahayana theory, bodhisattvas with powers normally reserved for immortal creatures devote themselves to the perfections, or ideals, of Mahayana Buddhism, whereas Hinayana beliefs represent the early Buddhist schools. Theravada, the dominant Buddhist tradition in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, has also been called the Hinayana tradition. According to Hinayana beliefs, Buddha is the perfect lovely being who has supernatural qualities that can be obtained by practicing Buddhism meditation and Buddha’s presence in life is a unique blessing for humanity.
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Hinayana Tradition |
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Hinayana and Mahayana of Buddhism
Following the death of Gautama Buddha around 400 BC, Buddhism came to be divided into two important branches: Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism. Mahayana Buddhism is regarded as the “Great Vehicle” in Sanskrit, believed in the aspect of the divinity of Buddha and the sect came to appreciate the idol worship of Buddhism. On the other hand, the Hinayana sect meant “small vehicle” and did not believe in the divinity of Buddha. It came to stress individual salvation with the help of self-discipline as well as meditation.
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