Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism Flashcards
Theravada Buddhism
Follow the original teachings of the Buddha.
Personal journey to becoming an Arhat- perfected person.
‘The school of the elders’
Harder to become enlightened.
Arhats are no longer reborn, they are free from the cycle of Samsara.
Mahayana Buddhism
Journey to becoming a Bodhisattva.
Want to achieve enlightenment for all living things.
Support others in their journey to enlightenment.
The ‘Greater school/vehicle’
Shows generosity, kindness and compassion.
Can choose to be earthly or transcendent.
Earthly Bodhisattvas will continue to be reborn to help others.
Transcendent Bodhisattvas will become spiritual beings that lead beings towards enlightenment.
‘However innumerable sentient beings are; i vow to save them’
Pure Land Buddhism
Mahayana tradition.
Easiest way to achieve enlightenment.
Saying ‘Namo Amitabha Buddha’ or repeating his name with faith in your life will guarantee you a place in the Pure Land.
Amitabha teaches people how to become enlightened.
Contains no suffering and craving is eliminated.
Offers the perfect conditions for enlightenment.
