Mahayana

Definition

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism that emerged around the 1st century CE, emphasizing the ideal of the Bodhisattva, a being who seeks enlightenment not just for themselves but for all sentient beings. This approach fosters a more inclusive and universal perspective on Buddhist teachings and practices, making it accessible to a wider audience compared to other forms of Buddhism. Mahayana also expands the concept of enlightenment and introduces a rich array of texts, practices, and schools of thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mahayana translates to 'Great Vehicle', highlighting its aim to accommodate a larger number of practitioners on the path to enlightenment.
2. It introduces the concept of multiple Buddhas and celestial Bodhisattvas, each embodying various aspects of compassion and wisdom.
3. Mahayana Buddhism encourages lay participation in spiritual practices, breaking down barriers between monks and laypersons.
4. Key texts in Mahayana include the Lotus Sutra and the Heart Sutra, which outline its distinctive teachings on emptiness and compassion.
5. Mahayana has given rise to various schools such as Pure Land Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism, each with unique practices but sharing core Mahayana principles.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of the Bodhisattva differentiate Mahayana from other branches of Buddhism?
  • The Bodhisattva ideal is central to Mahayana Buddhism and sets it apart from Theravada, which focuses primarily on individual enlightenment. In Mahayana, Bodhisattvas choose to remain in samsara, or the cycle of rebirth, to assist others in achieving enlightenment. This emphasis on altruism encourages practitioners to cultivate compassion and wisdom not only for themselves but for all beings, fostering a sense of interconnectedness.
• Discuss how Mahayana expands the notion of enlightenment compared to earlier Buddhist teachings.
  • Mahayana broadens the understanding of enlightenment by introducing the idea that anyone can attain Buddhahood, not just monks or ascetics. This inclusivity means that all practitioners, including laypeople, can aspire to become Bodhisattvas. The expansion also includes diverse paths and practices leading to enlightenment, recognizing that different individuals may have varying approaches based on their circumstances and capacities.
• Evaluate the influence of Mahayana Buddhism on contemporary spiritual practices in relation to its core teachings.
  • Mahayana Buddhism significantly impacts contemporary spiritual practices by emphasizing compassion and social engagement. Its teachings encourage a collective approach to spirituality, where individuals work towards the welfare of all beings rather than solely focusing on personal liberation. This has influenced various modern movements that prioritize community service, mindfulness practices, and interfaith dialogue, reflecting Mahayana's core belief in interconnectedness and universal compassion.

Related terms

Bodhisattva: A Bodhisattva is an enlightened being in Mahayana Buddhism who postpones their own nirvana in order to help others achieve enlightenment.

Sutra: Sutras are canonical texts in Buddhism that contain teachings attributed to the Buddha; in Mahayana, many new sutras were composed to elaborate on its philosophies.

Zen Buddhism:

Zen Buddhism is a school within Mahayana that emphasizes meditation and direct experience over textual study, focusing on attaining enlightenment through personal insight.