Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism

Question 1

What is Theravada Buddhism?

Answer 1

One of the oldest schools of Buddhism, and the more traditional denomination.

Question 2

What is Mahayana Buddhism?

Answer 2

the later Buddhist traditions including Pure Land, Tibetan and Zen Buddhism.

Question 3

What is sunyata?

Answer 3

The concept that nothing has a separate independent self or soul.

Question 4

What is Buddha-nature?

Answer 4

the idea that everyone has the essence of a Buddha inside them.

Question 5

What is Buddhahood?

Answer 5

When someone achieves enlightenment and becomes a Buddha. Believed by Mahayana Buddhists.

Question 6

What is the important desire in Theravada?

Answer 6

There is a strong emphasis on beaconing a Buddhist monk.

Question 7

What do Theravada monks do?

Answer 7

• Devote their life to following the path of enlightenment.
• Follow rules such as no sexual relationships, no offence to anyone and no possessions.
• Believe that commitment to Buddha and the Eightfold Path will bring good karma.

Question 8

What is a traditional example of attaining Buddhahood which is said in Buddhism?

Answer 8

Whilst honey is surrounded by bees it has a sweet taste although whilst it is surrounded by the bees it is impossible to taste. The only way to get the honey is to get rid of the bees.

Question 9

What do Mahayana Buddhists believe about the Buddha?

Answer 9

He remains active in the world and can influence it. He can be encountered through visions and meditations.

Question 10

What is someone’s Buddhanature hidden by?

Answer 10

Desires, ignorance and negative thoughts.