Harshita Sinha
Theravada is the oldest form of Buddhism, focusing on monastic discipline and the Pali Canon. Common in Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar.
Theravada emphasizes personal enlightenment through insight meditation and following the Eightfold Path.
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Mahayana Buddhism broadens the path to enlightenment for all beings, emphasizing compassion and the Bodhisattva ideal.
With texts in Sanskrit and Chinese, Mahayana includes Zen, Pure Land, and Nichiren traditions—focusing on meditation, chanting, and devotion.
Vajrayana developed from Mahayana and is known for its rituals, mantras, and tantric practices—primarily in Tibet and the Himalayas.
Vajrayana uses powerful visualization techniques and initiations, believing enlightenment can be achieved in one lifetime.
Though diverse in practice and culture, all three schools share a common goal: awakening the mind and ending suffering.