What is the Difference Between Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism?

Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism are two main divisions of Buddhism, each with distinct beliefs and practices. Here are some key differences between the two:

1. Goal: Theravada Buddhism primarily focuses on the Arhat path to enlightenment, where individuals strive to become Arhats and gain freedom from the cycle of samsara. In contrast, Mahayana Buddhists may choose to stay in the cycle of samsara out of compassion for others, aiming to become Bodhisattvas.
2. Scriptures: Theravada Buddhism relies exclusively on the earliest Buddhist scriptures, the Pali canon, and does not allow new compositions or later additions. Mahayana Buddhism, on the other hand, uses additional new texts, revelations, and teachings, and does not rely exclusively on the oldest sutras or scriptures.
3. Buddhas: Theravada Buddhism accepts only the historical Gautama (Sakyamuni) Buddha and past Buddhas. Mahayana Buddhism, besides Sakyamuni Buddha, also accepts other contemporary Buddhas like Amitābha.
4. Community: Theravada Buddhists follow the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (The Buddha) and consider themselves as the sole surviving school of the early Buddhist traditions. Mahayana Buddhism initially developed in India but spread to Central Asia, Tibet, China, and eventually East Asia, incorporating local cultures along the way.
5. Influences: Theravada Buddhism mainly practices the original teachings from Buddha. Mahayana Buddhism, however, is highly influenced by other Eastern philosophies such as Taoism.

In summary, Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism differ in their goals, scriptures, acceptance of Buddhas, community, and influences. While Theravada Buddhism focuses on the Arhat path and relies on the Pali canon, Mahayana Buddhism aims to become Bodhisattvas, accepts multiple Buddhas, and incorporates elements from other Eastern philosophies.

Comparative Table: Mahayana vs Theravada Buddhism

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

Mahayana Buddhism focuses on additional new texts, revelations, and teachings, and does not rely exclusively on the oldest sutras or scriptures. It has expanded into regions like Tibet, China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, and Mongolia, incorporating local cultures and customs. On the other hand, Theravada Buddhism is organized around the original teachings of the Buddha and emphasizes the individual path to liberation. Theravada Buddhism primarily practices in Southeast Asia.