Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism

Theravada What does it mean? Who practices Theravada Buddhism? How many people in the world practice Theravada? What role do everyday people play in the tradition of Theravada Buddhism? What book does the Theravada people use to guide their worship?

Mahayana What does it mean? Where is Mahayana practices most? How popular is Mahayana Buddhism? What role do everyday people play in the traditions of Mahayana Buddhism? 4 Bodhisattva vows What book is used to guide the teachings of Mahayana Buddhism?

How are the Two the Same? Both believe that Buddha is their teacher. The Four Noble Truths are the same. Eightfold Path is the same. Both do not agree with the idea that a supreme being made the world.

How are They Different? Theravada Mahayana Only historical Buddha is accepted. In order to achieve enlightenment or nirvana one much be a monk and give ones desires away. They believe that it is up to ones self to fully achieve nirvana. Along with Gautama other types of Buddha's are very popular. Everyone can experience nirvana at the end of their life no matter where they come from. They consider ones journey to enlightenment can be a group effort

Continued Theravada Mahayana Practiced more in Southern Asia. All scriptures are in Pali. Not a ritual based school of Buddhism Not much is done for the dying, told to meditate Practiced more in Northern Asia Translated into more of the local languages. Rituals are used a lot more Many rituals are done to help with the dying to help with their rebirth

Lastly Theravada Mahayana There is no in-between life in this school of Buddhism Only eat one meal a day Not vegetarians They teach that there is Bardo, the in-between area after death. People of this school can practice it and if one does they are very respected. Not a lot of forcing of this tradition. Vegetarians