What is the main purpose of Mahayana Buddhism?

The primary purpose of Mahayana Buddhism is to spread happiness and compassion to everyone in the world. This includes that by awakening to the Ultimate Truth, one obtains greater clarity and insight about the true nature of the universe, leading to internal peace and happiness.

What is unique about Mahayana Buddhism?

Mahayana talks a great deal about the bodhisattva (the ‘enlightenment being’) as being the ideal way for a Buddhist to live. Anyone can embark on the bodhisattva path. This is a way of life, a way of selflessness; it is a deep wish for all beings, no matter who they are, to be liberated from suffering.

Why is Mahayana Buddhism appealing?

Partly in response, Mahayana Buddhism arose. This alternative approach made Buddhism more acceptable for a greater number of people. Mahayana means the greater vehicle and refers to the opportunity for more people to gain salvation. Buddhism also received support from the state.

Why is Mahayana Buddhism called the Great Vehicle?

The word yana means vehicle or raft, which evokes the image of Buddhist teaching as a raft or vehicle that can help one cross over the river of suffering to the “other shore.” The Mahayana is, thus, the “Great Vehicle.”

What are the new teachings of Mahayana Buddhism?

The Mahayana Buddhists posited enlightenment and Buddhahood itself as the ultimate goal for all practitioners and regarded nirvana as a lower attainment for those of a “lesser vehicle” (Hinayana). With this new idea regarding the goal of Buddhism came a radically different understanding of Buddhology.

How is Mahayana Buddhism different?

Mahayana Buddhists believe they can achieve enlightenment through following the teachings of the Buddha . Whereas Theravada Buddhists strive to become Arhats and gain freedom from the cycle of samsara, Mahayana Buddhists may choose to stay in the cycle of samsara out of compassion for others.