Schools of Buddhism

Hinayana

    • It means ‘lesser path’
    • They are true to the teachings of Buddha
    • Its scriptures are in Pali.
    • Doesn’t believe in idol worship
    • Salvation through self-discipline and meditation
    • It was patronized by Ashoka

Mahayana

    • It means ‘Greater path’
    • Mahayana has two main philosophical schools – the Madhyamika & Yogachara.
    • Its scriptures are in Sanskrit.
    • It considers Buddha as God and worships idols of Buddhas & Bodhisattvas.
    • Salvation can be attained by means of faith and devotion to the mindfulness of the Buddha. It believes in mantras.

Vajrayana

    • It means “Vehicle of Thunderbolt”.
    • Established in Tibet in 11thCE
    • It believes that salvation can be attained by acquiring magical powers called vajra.
    • Much importance is given to the role of the guru called Lama who has mastered the philosophical and ritual traditions. There is a long lineage of lamas. The Dalai Lama is a well known Tibetan Lama.