Buddhism is one of the oldest religions in the world, and it has evolved into various schools and traditions. Two of the most prominent traditions within Buddhism are Mahayana and Theravada. Both schools of thought have shaped the practices and beliefs of millions of people across the globe. In this article, we will explore these two schools of Buddhism in detail, discussing their origins, key differences, and which one is older.
What is Theravada Buddhism?
Theravada, which means “Teaching of the Elders,” is often considered the oldest school of Buddhism. It traces its roots back to the earliest teachings of the Buddha. Theravada Buddhism is practiced primarily in Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.
Key Teachings of Theravada Buddhism
Theravada Buddhism focuses on the original teachings of the Buddha as recorded in the Pali Canon, which is the earliest and most complete collection of the Buddha’s teachings. The key concepts of Theravada Buddhism include:
The Four Noble Truths: These are the core teachings of the Buddha that explain the nature of suffering (dukkha) and the path to its cessation.
The Noble Eightfold Path: This is the path leading to the end of suffering, consisting of right view, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.
Meditation and Mindfulness: Theravada places a strong emphasis on meditation, particularly Vipassana (insight meditation), which helps practitioners gain deep understanding and awareness.
The Goal of Enlightenment: In Theravada Buddhism, the ultimate goal is to attain Nirvana, the state of liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth.
Theravada’s View on the Buddha
Theravada Buddhism views the Buddha as a historical figure who attained enlightenment through his own efforts. In this tradition, the Buddha is seen as an extraordinary human being, but not a god. Therefore, Theravada Buddhists do not worship the Buddha as a deity but honor him as an enlightened teacher.
What is Mahayana Buddhism?
Mahayana, meaning “Great Vehicle,” is another major school of Buddhism. It developed several centuries after the time of the Buddha and became more widespread in East Asia. Mahayana Buddhism is practiced in countries such as China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Nepal.
Key Teachings of Mahayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism builds upon the core teachings of the Buddha found in the Pali Canon but expands and adapts them to a broader scope. The teachings of Mahayana Buddhism include:
Bodhisattva Ideal: Unlike Theravada, which focuses primarily on individual enlightenment, Mahayana encourages practitioners to strive for Buddhahood in order to help all sentient beings achieve liberation. A Bodhisattva is someone who has attained a high level of spiritual insight but delays their own entry into Nirvana in order to assist others on their path to enlightenment.
Emptiness (Shunyata): In Mahayana, the concept of emptiness refers to the idea that all things are devoid of inherent, independent existence. Everything is interconnected and interdependent.
Devotion to Bodhisattvas: Mahayana Buddhists often worship and seek guidance from Bodhisattvas, enlightened beings who can help them on their path to enlightenment. Notable Bodhisattvas include Avalokiteshvara (compassion), Manjushri (wisdom), and Kshitigarbha (saving beings in hell).
The Goal of Buddhahood: Mahayana Buddhism teaches that everyone has the potential to become a Buddha. The path to Buddhahood involves developing the qualities of compassion, wisdom, and skillful means to help others.
Mahayana’s View on the Buddha
In Mahayana Buddhism, the Buddha is seen not just as a historical figure but also as a cosmic being. Mahayana Buddhists believe in the concept of multiple Buddhas, each presiding over different realms. The Buddha is also seen as an eternal presence that continues to teach and guide all sentient beings.
How Did Mahayana Buddhism Emerge?
Mahayana Buddhism did not appear suddenly. It was the result of centuries of development and reinterpretation of the original teachings of the Buddha. Scholars and monks began to interpret the Buddhist teachings in new ways, emphasizing compassion, the potential for Buddhahood, and the importance of helping others.
The Role of the Mahayana Sutras
The Mahayana tradition is primarily based on a vast collection of texts known as the Mahayana Sutras. These sutras are considered to be later additions to the Buddhist canon and are viewed as the Buddha’s teachings transmitted through other means, often by other Buddhas or Bodhisattvas. Some of the most well-known Mahayana Sutras include:
The Lotus Sutra
The Heart Sutra
The Diamond Sutra
These texts often focus on the Bodhisattva path, the concept of emptiness, and the importance of compassion for all beings.
Comparing Mahayana and Theravada
While both Mahayana and Theravada share a common root in the teachings of the Buddha, they differ in significant ways. Let’s take a closer look at the key differences between these two traditions.
1. Approach to Enlightenment
Theravada: Focuses on individual enlightenment, with the ultimate goal of attaining Nirvana and escaping the cycle of rebirth.
Mahayana: Emphasizes the Bodhisattva path, where practitioners seek enlightenment not just for themselves but for the benefit of all sentient beings.
2. Texts and Scriptures
Theravada: Relies on the Pali Canon, which is the earliest collection of the Buddha’s teachings.
Mahayana: Uses the Mahayana Sutras, which were composed later and expand on the teachings of the Buddha, particularly focusing on the Bodhisattva ideal and the concept of emptiness.
3. The Nature of the Buddha
Theravada: Views the Buddha as a historical figure who attained enlightenment through his own efforts.
Mahayana: Sees the Buddha as a cosmic, eternal being who exists in multiple forms and continues to guide sentient beings.
4. The Role of Bodhisattvas
Theravada: Does not emphasize the worship of Bodhisattvas; the focus is on individual effort towards Nirvana.
Mahayana: Places a significant focus on Bodhisattvas and the idea that practitioners should aspire to become Bodhisattvas in order to help others attain enlightenment.
5. Practice and Meditation
Theravada: Emphasizes meditation techniques like Vipassana (insight meditation) to attain a deep understanding of the nature of existence.
Mahayana: While meditation is also important, Mahayana practices include devotional acts such as chanting and praying to Bodhisattvas for guidance.
Which Is Older: Mahayana or Theravada?
Theravada is widely considered to be the older of the two traditions. It represents the original teachings of the Buddha and follows the earliest scriptures, known as the Pali Canon. Theravada Buddhism has remained relatively unchanged over the centuries and continues to preserve the original practices and teachings.
Mahayana Buddhism, on the other hand, emerged later, around the 1st century CE, and began to spread to regions outside of India. While it developed later, Mahayana Buddhism has since become a dominant form of Buddhism, especially in East Asia.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Theravada Buddhism is older than Mahayana Buddhism. It is based on the original teachings of the Buddha and focuses on individual enlightenment. Mahayana Buddhism, which emerged centuries later, expanded on these teachings and emphasizes compassion for all beings and the pursuit of Buddhahood.
Both traditions offer valuable insights into the path to enlightenment and have their unique approaches to the Buddha’s teachings. Whether one follows Theravada or Mahayana depends on personal preference, cultural background, and spiritual goals. Regardless of the tradition, the core teachings of Buddhism—such as the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path—remain central to both schools.
