Inside the Shubox: Theravada and Mahayana

     Today we'll have a look at the two main schools of Buddhism: Theravada and Mahayana. Although there are plenty of different types of Buddhism, most of them fall into one of these two schools. Although most teachings are shared between each other, there are also major differences to be examined. Theravada was essentially the grassroots of Buddhism. It started and grew and stayed in southeast Asia, primarily India, Indonesia, Nepal, Bangladesh, Cambodia, and others. It set fundamental teachings and was defined by the Pali Canon. However, Mahayana would be the one to flourish and establish itself as the main face for global Buddhism. "Over time, Mahayana would become the larger and historically more influential movement." (Bresnan 243). While these two systems of thought have had disagreements in its past, they live together relatively peacefully today. They accept each other and live in co-existence, unlike some other religions. 

The Spread of Buddhism and the Division of the Two Schools

    Theravada is generally regarded as old-school or the foundation of Buddhism. Theravada's reason for being is to promote and pass on Buddha's original teachings about how to detach and liberate oneself from the characteristics of suffering. The practice of Theravada is very personal. Through meditation and teachings, one will achieve nirvana. It's much closer to some of the original teachings and concepts. "Theravada literally means "teachings (doctrine) of the elders," but in more everyday language, we could translate it simply as "the orthodox tradition." (Bresnan 252). The goal of those who practice Theravada is to achieve nirvana as soon as possible, to become an Arhat. In the Theravada path, enlightenment is achieved through the cultivation of the Noble Eightfold Path, insight, and concentration. The heart practices are incorporated, and the attention is given to developing insight and awakening to the nature of reality.

    Mahayana Buddhism stems from internal splits and divisions. Originally, the movement of Mahayana happened due to the growing attitude that the school of Theravada was becoming elitist and exclusive, very narrow-scoped and not general. The goal for Mahayana is for all to achieve Nirvana, not just yourself. In fact, the individual goal is to hold off on achieving Nirvana just before crossing it and helping others get to where you are. Mahayana has a complex range of divine entities that can be different across regions called celestial beings. "What initially fueled the rise of Mahayana was a deep dissatisfaction on the part of some with the traditional interpretation of Buddha's teaching by the dominant majority, the Theravadins. An attitude was developing among some Buddhists that the Theravada tradition had become too conservative, too rule-bound, too elitist, and too narrow in scope... Buddha, though, had directed his teaching to everyone, not just a select few." (Bresnan 263). The Mahayanists often at times refer to the Theravada as "Hinayana" or "little raft" due to this. The entire idea is to escape reality, the pains and sufferings of the mortal world. Mahayanists label themselves as the big raft, inclusive and welcoming for all, holding off on their personal ascensions to liberate every being.

A Video Detailing the Differences of the Two Schools

Works Cited

“Buddha's Teachings: Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana.” Diamond Way Buddhism, 23 Apr. 2016, www.diamondway-buddhism.org/buddhism/buddhas-teachings/.

“Differences Between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism.” One Mind Dharma, 10 Dec. 2018, oneminddharma.com/theravada-mahayana-buddhism/.

“Divisions of Buddhism - Buddhist Beliefs - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies Revision - Edexcel - BBC Bitesize.” BBC News, BBC, www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zf8g4qt/revision/2.