Major difference between Hinayana and Mahayana Buddhism

One of the most popular faiths in the world, Buddhism, embraces a variety of traditions and philosophical schools. The Hinayana (Theravada) and Mahayana schools of Buddhism are two important subdisciplines. While they both adhere to the core teachings of Buddhism, their philosophical perspectives, practices, and objectives are different.
The primary distinctions between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism are examined in this article.

1. Goal:
The words "Hinayana" and "Mahayana" both mean "lesser vehicle," but the former refers to a "greater vehicle." Their different approaches to enlightenment are reflected in this contrast. Being an arhat (a person who has acquired enlightenment) is the ultimate aim of Hinayana Buddhism, which emphasizes personal enlightenment and emphasizes individual emancipation. The emancipation of all sentient beings is given more priority in Mahayana Buddhism, which also aims to become a Buddha to help others.

2. Bodhisattva Ideal:
The notion of the bodhisattva, an enlightened individual who intentionally delays achieving freedom to assist others in achieving enlightenment, is fundamental to Mahayana Buddhism. The happiness and liberation of all sentient beings are the goals of bodhisattvas, who are viewed as compassionate creatures. The bodhisattva ideal is not rejected by Hinayana Buddhism, but it is seen as a route exclusively for the most experienced practitioners, with the main emphasis being on individual emancipation.

3. Scripture & Canon:
According to the Hinayana school, the Tripitaka, also known as the Pali Canon, is the only reliable source of religious texts. The Sutta Pitaka, which contains the Buddha's teachings, the Vinaya Pitaka, which contains regulations for monastic discipline, and the Abhidhamma Pitaka, which contains philosophical analysis, make up the Tripitaka. The Mahayana sutras, on the other hand, are extra sutras that are part of Mahayana Buddhism and are said to provide profound teachings that are particularly suitable to people who follow the bodhisattva path.

4. Practices & Rituals:
Hinayana Buddhism places a strong emphasis on meditation, awareness, and self-cultivation as ways to achieve nirvana. Monastics are held in great esteem, and they adhere to a rigid code of behavior and participate in rigorous meditation practices. Mahayana Buddhism focuses more emphasis on devotional practices, prayer, and the use of rituals, such as chanting and offerings, while still emphasizing meditation and mindfulness. The ambition to become a bodhisattva is available to both monastics and lay practitioners, though lay participation is more common.

5. View of The Buddha:
Hinayana Buddhism emphasizes the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, as an enlightened man and views him as the highest teacher. The emphasis is on comprehending and applying the Buddha's teachings to achieve nirvana for oneself. In Mahayana Buddhism, the Buddha is seen as a transcendental, everlasting, and universal figure in addition to being the personification of knowledge and compassion. The concept of numerous Buddhas and the existence of various Buddha worlds is presented in Mahayana sutras.

6. Cultural Influence:
Hinayana Buddhism has had a significant influence in Southeast Asia, including countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar. The monastic sangha plays a central role, and the teachings are preserved in the Pali language. Mahayana Buddhism, with its emphasis on compassion and the bodhisattva ideal, spread widely across East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It has influenced local cultures, giving rise to diverse practices and sects within the tradition.

In conclusion, While both Hinayana and Mahayana Buddhism share a common foundation in the teachings of the historical Buddha, they differ in their philosophical outlooks, practices, and goals. Hinayana Buddhism emphasizes personal liberation, individual enlightenment, and adherence to the Pali Canon. Mahayana Buddhism places a greater emphasis on the bodhisattva ideal, compassion for all sentient beings, and the aspiration to attain Buddhahood to benefit others. Understanding these major differences allows for a deeper appreciation of the diversity and richness within Buddhist thought and practice.