Hinayana, Mahayana & Vajrayana

1. Hinayana

  • Core idea: Follows original teachings of Buddha.
  • Main focus: Individual salvation through:
    • Self-discipline
    • Meditation
  • Ultimate goal: Nirvana
  • Language: Pali used.
  • Practiced in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos

2. Mahayana

  • Core idea: liberation is possible for all beings.
  • View of Buddha: Buddha is regarded as God
  • Buddha worship started
  • Language: Sanskrit
  • Practiced in  China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, Mongolia.

3. Vajrayana

  • Uses:
    • Complex rituals
    • Mantras
    • Tantric practices
    • Symbolic/ritual techniques
  • Goal: Rapid spiritual transformation/enlightenment
  • Practiced in Tibet