Jainism and Buddhism(600BC- ) → Different Schools of Buddhism - Neenv

Different Schools of Buddhism

Hinayana (Theravada)	Mahayana	Vajrayana (Tantric)
a) Literally translates to “the Lesser Path.” Theravada emphasizes the “Doctrine of the Elders.” It represents the original, more conservative school of Buddhism and is focused on individual salvation through personal discipline.	Literally translates to “the Greater Path.” The terms “Mahayana” and “Hinayana” were coined by the Mahayana school. It focuses on universal salvation and compassion for all beings, emphasizing the role of Bodhisattvas.	Literally means “Vehicle of Thunderbolt.” Vajrayana, also called the “Diamond Vehicle,” is associated with esoteric practices such as Mantrayana, Tantrayana, and Tantric Buddhism. This marks the final stage of Buddhism in India, emphasizing the enactment of Buddhist ideas in everyday life. It uses Vajra to symbolize the indestructible reality of the self and Yana as the spiritual pursuit of ultimate truth.
b) Considered the orthodox school and more faithful to Gautama Buddha’s teachings than Mahayana. Theravada was the original school of Buddhist philosophy.	Heterodox school of Buddhist philosophy. Originated later than Hinayana. Two main philosophical schools: Madhyamika and Yogachara.	Form of Buddhism originating in eastern India during the 8th century, established in Tibet by the 11th century. Central concept is the ‘Two Truths Doctrine,’ differentiating between conventional and ultimate truths. Vajrayana texts use a symbolic ‘Twilight Language’ to evoke inner experiences in practitioners. Focus on an awakened, enlightened mind and reality as viewed by such a mind.
c) Its scriptures are in Pali, the language that Buddha taught in.	Its scriptures are in Sanskrit, the language of Indian scholasticism.	Most terms originated in Sanskrit tantric Indian Buddhism. Vajrayana uses symbolic language called samdhya-bhasa or Twilight Language, aiming to evoke transformative experiences.
d) A school of Buddhism that views Buddha as a human, rejecting idol worship. It focuses on achieving individual salvation through self-discipline and meditation, with the ultimate aim of attaining Nirvana.	A school of Buddhism that reveres Buddha as a god and venerates idols of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Mahayana emphasizes universal liberation from suffering for all beings, known as the “Great Vehicle”. Its ultimate aim is spiritual upliftment. It offers salvation through faith, devotion, and mindfulness, particularly the grace of Amitabh Buddha. It also believes in mantras.	An esoteric form of Buddhism emphasizing faster, more effective paths to enlightenment through magical power (Vajra). It highlights the role of Bodhisattvas and fierce deities like the Taras, using mantras, mandalas, and other rituals. It places great importance on the role of the guru, with the Dalai Lama being the most notable figure in Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism.
e) Currently, Theravada Buddhism is primarily practiced in Sri Lanka, which serves as its main stronghold. It is also found in Myanmar, Thailand, and various parts of Southeast Asia. Emperor Ashoka was a notable supporter of Hinayana.	Today, Mahayana Buddhism is prevalent in countries such as Japan, China, and other parts of Asia. It received royal patronage from Emperor Kanishka, with later support from Harsha Vardhana.	Vajrayana Buddhism gained popularity in eastern India, particularly in Bengal and Bihar, and holds a significant presence in the Himalayan regions, including Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, as well as Mongolia.

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