understanding the Mahayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism is one of the major branches of Buddhism. It is often called the “Great Vehicle.” This name comes from the Sanskrit words “Maha,” meaning great, and “Yana,” meaning vehicle. It suggests that Mahayana Buddhism is a broad path that can carry many people toward enlightenment.
Mahayana Buddhism is known for its emphasis on compassion and wisdom. It teaches that all beings can attain Buddhahood. Unlike earlier Buddhist traditions, it encourages followers to become Bodhisattvas—beings who seek enlightenment not just for themselves but for others as well.
Other Names for Mahayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism is also known by different names in various regions and traditions. Some of these include:
1. The Great Vehicle (Mahayana)
This is the most common name. It highlights Mahayana’s inclusive approach, aiming to help many beings reach enlightenment.
2. Northern Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism spread mainly in northern Asia. It became dominant in countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Tibet. Because of this, it is sometimes called Northern Buddhism, in contrast to Theravāda Buddhism, which is stronger in the south.
3. Bodhisattva Path
Mahayana Buddhism focuses on the Bodhisattva ideal. A Bodhisattva is someone who seeks enlightenment not just for personal liberation but for the benefit of all beings. This emphasis makes Mahayana different from other Buddhist schools, which often focus on individual enlightenment.
4. Second Turning of the Dharma Wheel
Buddhists believe that the Buddha taught in different stages, known as “turnings of the Dharma wheel.” Mahayana is considered the second major turning, introducing new ideas such as emptiness (Shunyata) and universal compassion.
5. Sutra Vehicle
Mahayana follows many new Buddhist scriptures called Mahayana Sutras. These sutras introduce advanced teachings on wisdom, compassion, and the nature of reality. Because of this, Mahayana is sometimes called the “Sutra Vehicle.”
Origins of Mahayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism emerged around the 1st century CE. It developed from earlier Buddhist traditions and introduced new teachings. Some scholars believe it originated in India, while others suggest influences from Central Asia.
Mahayana texts emphasize the importance of compassion and wisdom. They teach that everyone has Buddha-nature, meaning all beings have the potential to become Buddhas. This idea differs from earlier traditions, which focused on the personal journey of monks toward Nirvana.
Key Beliefs of Mahayana Buddhism
1. Bodhisattva Ideal
In Mahayana Buddhism, the highest goal is to become a Bodhisattva. A Bodhisattva postpones their own enlightenment to help others reach liberation. This is a major difference from Theravāda Buddhism, which focuses more on individual enlightenment.
2. Emptiness (Shunyata)
Mahayana teaches that all things are empty of independent existence. This means nothing exists by itself; everything is interconnected. This idea comes from the teachings of the philosopher Nagarjuna, who helped shape Mahayana thought.
3. Buddha-Nature (Tathagatagarbha)
Mahayana Buddhism teaches that all beings have Buddha-nature. This means everyone has the potential to attain Buddhahood. This idea gives hope and motivation to practitioners, as enlightenment is seen as achievable for all.
4. Multiple Buddhas and Bodhisattvas
Unlike earlier Buddhist traditions, which focus on the historical Buddha, Mahayana Buddhism recognizes many Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Important figures include:
Amitabha Buddha – The Buddha of Infinite Light, associated with the Pure Land tradition.
Avalokiteshvara – The Bodhisattva of Compassion, known as Guanyin in China and Kannon in Japan.
Manjushri – The Bodhisattva of Wisdom.
5. Expansive Scriptures
Mahayana Buddhism has a vast collection of scriptures. The Mahayana Sutras, such as the Lotus Sutra and the Heart Sutra, introduce advanced teachings. These texts expand on the earlier Buddhist teachings and introduce new ideas about the nature of reality and enlightenment.
Major Schools of Mahayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism has many schools, each with unique practices and teachings. Some of the most well-known include:
1. Pure Land Buddhism
Pure Land Buddhism focuses on devotion to Amitabha Buddha. Practitioners chant his name to be reborn in the Pure Land, a paradise where enlightenment is easier to achieve.
2. Zen Buddhism
Zen Buddhism, known as Chan in China, emphasizes meditation and direct experience over scriptures. It teaches that enlightenment can be attained through sudden insight rather than long study.
3. Tibetan Buddhism
Tibetan Buddhism combines Mahayana teachings with Vajrayana practices. It includes elaborate rituals, meditation techniques, and the guidance of lamas (spiritual teachers).
4. Nichiren Buddhism
This school focuses on the Lotus Sutra as the ultimate Buddhist teaching. Followers chant the phrase “Nam-myoho-renge-kyo” to attain enlightenment and transform their lives.
Differences Between Mahayana and Theravāda Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism differs from Theravāda Buddhism in several ways:
Goal of Practice – Mahayana seeks enlightenment for all beings, while Theravāda focuses on individual liberation.
Bodhisattva Path – Mahayana encourages the Bodhisattva path, while Theravāda emphasizes becoming an Arhat (one who attains Nirvana).
View on the Buddha – Mahayana believes in multiple Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, while Theravāda mainly follows the historical Buddha.
Scriptures – Mahayana has a vast collection of sutras, while Theravāda relies primarily on the Pali Canon.
Influence of Mahayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism has had a significant impact on Asian culture, philosophy, and society. It has inspired art, literature, and architecture. Many famous Buddhist temples and statues, such as the Great Buddha of Kamakura in Japan and the Mogao Caves in China, were built under Mahayana influence.
Mahayana ideas have also influenced modern Buddhist movements. Many contemporary Buddhists embrace its teachings on compassion, social engagement, and the potential for enlightenment in daily life.
Conclusion
Mahayana Buddhism is a vast and profound tradition. It is also known as the “Great Vehicle,” “Northern Buddhism,” and the “Bodhisattva Path.” It teaches that all beings can attain enlightenment and emphasizes compassion and wisdom. With its many schools and rich philosophy, Mahayana Buddhism continues to inspire millions of people worldwide.
