What Was The Difference Between Mahayana And Theravada Buddhism

The tapestry of Buddhism is rich and diverse, woven with threads of various schools and interpretations. Among these, Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism stand as two of the most prominent and influential traditions. While both trace their origins back to the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, they have evolved along distinct paths, developing unique philosophical perspectives, practices, and goals. Understanding the differences between Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism is crucial for anyone seeking to grasp the full spectrum of Buddhist thought and practice.

Origins and Historical Development

To understand the divergence between Mahayana and Theravada, it's essential to consider their historical contexts. After the Buddha's parinirvana (death), the Buddhist community gradually developed different interpretations of his teachings.

• Early Buddhism: In the initial centuries after the Buddha's passing, various schools of thought emerged, each emphasizing different aspects of his teachings and practices. These early schools laid the groundwork for future developments.
• The Rise of Theravada: Theravada Buddhism, meaning "the Doctrine of the Elders," is considered by its followers to be the closest to the original teachings of the Buddha. It emphasizes the importance of personal liberation through understanding the Four Noble Truths and following the Eightfold Path. This school gained prominence in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.
• The Emergence of Mahayana: Mahayana, meaning "the Great Vehicle," arose later, around the first century CE. It presented itself as a more accessible and universal path to enlightenment, open to all, not just monks and nuns. Mahayana Buddhism spread throughout East Asia, including China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, adapting and evolving as it encountered new cultures and philosophies.

Core Philosophical Differences

The differences between Mahayana and Theravada extend beyond historical development and encompass core philosophical viewpoints:

1. The Concept of the Buddha

• Theravada: In Theravada, the Buddha is primarily viewed as a historical figure, a human being who achieved enlightenment through his own efforts. He serves as a role model, demonstrating the possibility of liberation through diligent practice. While reverence is shown to the Buddha, he is not considered a god or a divine being.

• Mahayana: Mahayana Buddhism expands the concept of the Buddha to include the Trikaya, the three bodies of the Buddha:

  • Nirmanakaya: The physical, earthly body of the historical Buddha.
  • Sambhogakaya: The "enjoyment body," a celestial form in which Buddhas appear in visions and teach bodhisattvas.
  • Dharmakaya: The "truth body," the ultimate reality or suchness of all things, the embodiment of enlightenment itself.

  This concept allows for multiple Buddhas existing simultaneously throughout the universe, offering guidance and assistance to sentient beings.

2. The Bodhisattva Ideal

• Theravada: While the concept of a bodhisattva exists in Theravada, it is primarily associated with the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, in his previous lives before achieving enlightenment. The goal in Theravada is to become an arhat, a fully enlightened being who attains nirvana and escapes the cycle of rebirth.
• Mahayana: The bodhisattva ideal is central to Mahayana Buddhism. A bodhisattva is someone who has generated bodhicitta (the mind of enlightenment) and vows to postpone their own nirvana in order to help all other beings achieve liberation. Bodhisattvas are seen as compassionate beings who work tirelessly to alleviate suffering and guide others on the path to enlightenment. This ideal emphasizes altruism and universal compassion as essential qualities for spiritual progress.

3. The Nature of Reality

• Theravada: Theravada emphasizes the impermanence (anicca), suffering (dukkha), and non-self (anatta) of all phenomena. The goal is to understand these characteristics and to detach from clinging to impermanent and unsatisfactory experiences.
• Mahayana: Mahayana builds upon these concepts but introduces the idea of sunyata (emptiness). Sunyata suggests that all phenomena are empty of inherent existence, meaning they do not possess an independent, fixed self. This understanding leads to a deeper appreciation of interconnectedness and interdependence. Mahayana also emphasizes the concept of tathagatagarbha, the "Buddha-nature" inherent in all beings, suggesting the potential for enlightenment is present in everyone.

4. Paths to Enlightenment

• Theravada: The path to enlightenment in Theravada focuses on personal discipline, meditation, and the cultivation of wisdom through understanding the Four Noble Truths and practicing the Eightfold Path. The emphasis is on self-reliance and individual effort.
• Mahayana: Mahayana offers a broader range of paths to enlightenment, emphasizing the role of compassion, skillful means, and the assistance of Buddhas and bodhisattvas. Practices like chanting, visualization, and devotion are often employed to cultivate bodhicitta and generate merit. The concept of skillful means (upaya) allows for flexibility in adapting teachings and practices to suit the needs and capacities of different individuals.

Key Differences in Practice

Beyond philosophical divergences, Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism differ significantly in their practices and approaches to spiritual development:

1. Role of Monasticism

• Theravada: Monasticism plays a central role in Theravada Buddhism. Monks and nuns are considered the primary practitioners of the Dharma, dedicating their lives to study, meditation, and the preservation of the Buddha's teachings. Lay practitioners support the monastic community and strive to live ethical lives based on Buddhist principles.
• Mahayana: While monasticism is also important in Mahayana, there is a greater emphasis on the role of lay practitioners. Mahayana encourages individuals from all walks of life to engage in Buddhist practice and to strive for enlightenment. The bodhisattva ideal is accessible to both monastics and laypeople, emphasizing the importance of compassion and service to others.

2. Emphasis on Meditation

• Theravada: Vipassana (insight meditation) and samatha (concentration meditation) are central practices in Theravada. These techniques are used to develop mindfulness, concentration, and insight into the nature of reality.
• Mahayana: While meditation is also important in Mahayana, a wider variety of techniques are employed, including:
  • Zazen: A form of seated meditation practiced in Zen Buddhism, focusing on awareness of the present moment.
  • Visualization: Using mental imagery to cultivate positive qualities and connect with Buddhas and bodhisattvas.
  • Mantras: Chanting sacred syllables or phrases to focus the mind and invoke spiritual energy.

3. Use of Texts and Scriptures

• Theravada: The Pali Canon (also known as the Tipitaka) is the primary source of scripture in Theravada Buddhism. It is considered the most complete collection of early Buddhist texts, believed to contain the authentic teachings of the Buddha.
• Mahayana: Mahayana Buddhism also recognizes the Pali Canon but includes a vast collection of sutras (scriptures) that are believed to have been taught by the Buddha but were not recorded until later. These sutras often present teachings that are not found in the Pali Canon, such as the concept of sunyata and the bodhisattva ideal.

4. Ritual and Devotion

• Theravada: While ritual is present in Theravada, it is generally less elaborate than in Mahayana. Practices such as offering flowers, lighting candles, and chanting are performed to show respect to the Buddha and to cultivate positive mental states.
• Mahayana: Mahayana Buddhism often incorporates more elaborate rituals and devotional practices. These may include:
  • Puja: Offering ceremonies to Buddhas and bodhisattvas.
  • Mandala: Creating intricate geometric diagrams as a form of meditation and visualization.
  • Prostrations: Performing physical prostrations to express reverence and humility.

Key Distinctions Summarized

To further clarify the differences between these two traditions, here's a summarized table:

Common Ground

Despite their differences, Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism share a fundamental foundation:

• The Four Noble Truths: Both traditions accept the Four Noble Truths as the cornerstone of Buddhist teachings, outlining the nature of suffering and the path to liberation.
• The Eightfold Path: Both traditions emphasize the importance of the Eightfold Path as a guide to ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom.
• Karma and Rebirth: Both traditions believe in the law of karma (cause and effect) and the cycle of rebirth.
• Rejection of a Permanent Self: Both traditions reject the notion of a permanent, unchanging self (atman).
• The Importance of Meditation: Both traditions recognize the importance of meditation as a means of cultivating mindfulness, concentration, and insight.

Conclusion

Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism represent two distinct yet interconnected branches of the Buddhist tradition. Theravada emphasizes personal liberation through self-discipline and the understanding of the Four Noble Truths, while Mahayana emphasizes the bodhisattva ideal and the liberation of all beings through compassion and skillful means. Both traditions offer valuable insights and practices for those seeking to cultivate wisdom, compassion, and inner peace. Understanding the differences between Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism allows for a richer and more nuanced appreciation of the diverse landscape of Buddhist thought and practice, and can help individuals find the path that resonates most deeply with their own aspirations and inclinations. Ultimately, both paths, while different in their approaches, lead towards the same goal: the cessation of suffering and the attainment of enlightenment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Is one tradition "better" than the other?

  No. Both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism offer valid paths to enlightenment. The "best" tradition is the one that resonates most deeply with an individual's own needs and aspirations.

• Can someone practice both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism?

  Yes, it is possible to study and practice elements of both traditions. Many practitioners find value in exploring the different perspectives and techniques offered by each school.

• What are some examples of specific practices that are unique to each tradition?

  Unique to Theravada: Intensive vipassana retreats, emphasis on strict monastic rules. Unique to Mahayana: Chanting sutras, visualization practices, devotion to specific bodhisattvas like Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin) or Manjushri.

• Are there any modern movements that attempt to bridge the gap between Mahayana and Theravada?

  Yes, there are various movements and teachers who promote dialogue and collaboration between the two traditions, emphasizing their shared foundations and recognizing the value of their unique contributions.

• How does Vajrayana Buddhism (Tibetan Buddhism) fit into this picture?

  Vajrayana Buddhism is often considered a branch of Mahayana Buddhism. It incorporates tantric practices and emphasizes the rapid path to enlightenment through the transformation of negative emotions and the realization of one's inherent Buddha-nature. It shares core Mahayana philosophies but adds unique practices and perspectives.

• Where can I learn more about these traditions?

  You can learn more through reputable books, online resources, and by connecting with local Buddhist centers and communities. Be sure to seek out qualified teachers and reliable sources of information.