What is the Difference Between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism?

The main differences between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism include their beliefs in the divinity of the Buddha, the nature of the path to enlightenment, and the specific scriptures followed by each tradition. Here are the key differences:

1. Divinity of the Buddha: Mahayana Buddhism believes in the divinity of the Buddha and encourages idol worship, while Hinayana Buddhism does not believe in the divinity of the Buddha and considers him an ordinary human being who attained Nirvana.
2. Path to Enlightenment: Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the role of bodhisattvas, who are enlightened beings that postpone their own Buddhahood to help others attain enlightenment. In contrast, Hinayana Buddhism focuses on individual salvation through self-discipline and meditation.
3. Scriptures: Mahayana Buddhism follows the Mahayana Sutras, which were written in Sanskrit. On the other hand, Hinayana Buddhism relies on the Pali Canon, which contains the original teachings of Buddha and is written in Pali.
4. Geographical Distribution: Mahayana Buddhism is practiced in countries such as China, Korea, Japan, and Tibet. Hinayana Buddhism is followed in countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos.
5. The Ten-Far Reaching Attitudes: Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes immeasurable joy, wishing that others attain the joy of unending enlightenment. In contrast, Hinayana Buddhism emphasizes immeasurable joy as rejoicing in the happiness of others without jealousy and not expecting anything in return.

Comparative Table: Mahayana vs Hinayana Buddhism

Here is a table comparing the differences between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism:

Mahayana Buddhism believes in the divinity of Gautama Buddha and encourages idol worship, while Hinayana Buddhism does not believe in the divinity of the Buddha and stresses individual salvation through self-discipline and meditation. The two sects emerged after the death of Gautama Buddha in 400 BC.