Mahayana Buddhism

Definition

Mahayana Buddhism is a major branch of Buddhism that emerged around the 1st century CE, emphasizing the path of the Bodhisattva, a being who seeks enlightenment not only for themselves but also for all sentient beings. This tradition highlights compassion and wisdom as key virtues and introduces a more accessible approach to achieving enlightenment, making it appealing to a wider audience. Mahayana teaches that anyone can attain Buddhahood, thus broadening the community of practitioners beyond monastic life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the importance of compassion and altruism, encouraging practitioners to work towards the enlightenment of all beings rather than just their own.
2. It incorporates a diverse range of beliefs and practices, including devotion to celestial Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, which provides multiple pathways for followers.
3. The Mahayana tradition includes various schools such as Zen and Pure Land, each with unique teachings and practices that cater to different types of practitioners.
4. Mahayana texts often reinterpret earlier Buddhist teachings, offering a more inclusive view that adapts to the cultural contexts where it spreads.
5. The concept of emptiness (śūnyatā) is central in Mahayana philosophy, suggesting that all phenomena are interdependent and lack inherent existence, which influences ethical behavior and understanding of reality.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of the Bodhisattva differ between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism?
  • In Theravada Buddhism, the focus is primarily on individual enlightenment, with the ideal practitioner being an Arhat who seeks personal liberation from suffering. In contrast, Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the role of the Bodhisattva, who embodies compassion by postponing their own enlightenment to assist others in reaching it. This shift reflects Mahayana's broader community-oriented approach and highlights its commitment to collective salvation.
• What are some key differences in practices between Mahayana Buddhism and its earlier form?
  • Mahayana Buddhism introduces practices such as devotional worship to Bodhisattvas and celestial Buddhas, contrasting with the more ascetic and meditation-focused practices of early Buddhism. It also encourages lay participation in spiritual activities, expanding opportunities for individuals outside monastic communities to engage with Buddhist teachings. This inclusivity allows for a richer tapestry of rituals and beliefs within Mahayana compared to earlier traditions.
• Evaluate how Mahayana Buddhism’s view on emptiness influences its ethical framework compared to other Buddhist schools.
  • Mahayana Buddhism's understanding of emptiness (śūnyatā) leads to an ethical framework that emphasizes interconnectedness and interdependence among all beings. This perspective encourages practitioners to act compassionately toward others, understanding that their actions have far-reaching consequences. In contrast to schools with a more individualistic approach, such as Theravada, Mahayana's emphasis on communal well-being promotes a sense of responsibility for others' welfare, shaping a moral code deeply rooted in collective harmony.

Related terms

Bodhisattva: A Bodhisattva is an enlightened being who chooses to remain in the cycle of birth and death to help others achieve enlightenment, embodying the ideal of compassion central to Mahayana Buddhism.

Sutras: Sutras are sacred texts in Buddhism, particularly important in Mahayana, which contain teachings attributed to the Buddha and are crucial for understanding its doctrines and practices.

Nirvana: Nirvana is the ultimate goal in Buddhism, representing the liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth, which Mahayana views as achievable through both individual and collective efforts.