Mahayana vs. Hinayana — What's the Difference?

Mahayana Buddhism, meaning "Greater Vehicle," is known for its broad inclusivity, advocating enlightenment for all beings through the path of the Bodhisattva. This contrasts with what is commonly referred to as Hinayana (literally "Lesser Vehicle" but often considered a pejorative term) or more accurately Theravada, which means "Teaching of the Elders" and focuses on individual enlightenment through personal meditation and insight.

In Mahayana, the Bodhisattva ideal is central; adherents vow to become enlightened not just for themselves but to help all sentient beings achieve liberation from suffering. Conversely, in Theravada, the focus is on achieving Arhatship, a state where the individual becomes liberated from the cycle of birth and rebirth, emphasizing personal wisdom and meditation practices.

Mahayana texts include a vast array of sutras, including the Lotus Sutra and the Heart Sutra, which introduce concepts like the emptiness of all phenomena and the universal potential for Buddhahood. Theravada relies on the Pali Canon, the oldest Buddhist scriptures, which offer a more conservative interpretation of Buddha's teachings, emphasizing ethical conduct and monastic discipline.

Geographically, Mahayana Buddhism spread through North and East Asia, profoundly influencing cultures in China, Japan, Korea, and Tibet. Theravada is primarily practiced in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, where it influences local practices and daily life deeply.

While both branches agree on the core doctrines of Buddhism like the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, Mahayana Buddhism introduces the upaya (skillful means), a method that adapts teachings to suit different levels of understanding and spiritual maturity. Theravada maintains a more traditional approach, adhering strictly to the path laid out by the historical Buddha.