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What is a key belief that distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Hinayana Buddhism?
- a)Worship of idols and images
- b)Use of Pali language by scholars
- c)Emphasis on individual salvation through self-discipline
- d)Belief in universal liberation from the suffering of all beings
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?
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What is a key belief that distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Hinaya...
Key Distinction Between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism and Hinayana Buddhism (often referred to as Theravada) represent two significant branches of Buddhist thought, each with distinct beliefs and practices. A crucial difference lies in their approach to salvation and liberation.
Belief in Universal Liberation
- Mahayana Perspective: Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the ideal of the Bodhisattva, a being who seeks enlightenment not just for themselves but for all sentient beings. This fosters a sense of compassion and a commitment to helping others achieve liberation from suffering.
- Universal Responsibility: Practitioners of Mahayana believe in the collective liberation of all beings, which contrasts with the more individualistic approach seen in Hinayana Buddhism.
Hinayana Approach
- Focus on Individual Salvation: Hinayana Buddhism is often characterized by its emphasis on personal enlightenment. Practitioners focus on self-discipline, meditation, and ethical conduct to attain Nirvana for themselves.
- Narrower Scope: The Hinayana path is seen as a more solitary journey, prioritizing individual effort over communal responsibility for the liberation of others.
Conclusion
In summary, the key belief that distinguishes Mahayana from Hinayana Buddhism is the Mahayana focus on universal liberation for all beings, as opposed to the Hinayana emphasis on individual salvation through self-discipline. This difference in worldview shapes the practices, teachings, and community roles of each tradition, making it a fundamental aspect of Buddhist philosophy.
Mahayana Buddhism and Hinayana Buddhism (often referred to as Theravada) represent two significant branches of Buddhist thought, each with distinct beliefs and practices. A crucial difference lies in their approach to salvation and liberation.
Belief in Universal Liberation
- Mahayana Perspective: Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the ideal of the Bodhisattva, a being who seeks enlightenment not just for themselves but for all sentient beings. This fosters a sense of compassion and a commitment to helping others achieve liberation from suffering.
- Universal Responsibility: Practitioners of Mahayana believe in the collective liberation of all beings, which contrasts with the more individualistic approach seen in Hinayana Buddhism.
Hinayana Approach
- Focus on Individual Salvation: Hinayana Buddhism is often characterized by its emphasis on personal enlightenment. Practitioners focus on self-discipline, meditation, and ethical conduct to attain Nirvana for themselves.
- Narrower Scope: The Hinayana path is seen as a more solitary journey, prioritizing individual effort over communal responsibility for the liberation of others.
Conclusion
In summary, the key belief that distinguishes Mahayana from Hinayana Buddhism is the Mahayana focus on universal liberation for all beings, as opposed to the Hinayana emphasis on individual salvation through self-discipline. This difference in worldview shapes the practices, teachings, and community roles of each tradition, making it a fundamental aspect of Buddhist philosophy.
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What is a key belief that distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Hinayana Buddhism?a)Worship of idols and imagesb)Use of Pali language by scholarsc)Emphasis on individual salvation through self-disciplined)Belief in universal liberation from the suffering of all beingsCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?
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What is a key belief that distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Hinayana Buddhism?a)Worship of idols and imagesb)Use of Pali language by scholarsc)Emphasis on individual salvation through self-disciplined)Belief in universal liberation from the suffering of all beingsCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer? for UPSC 2025 is part of UPSC preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the UPSC exam syllabus. Information about What is a key belief that distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Hinayana Buddhism?a)Worship of idols and imagesb)Use of Pali language by scholarsc)Emphasis on individual salvation through self-disciplined)Belief in universal liberation from the suffering of all beingsCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer? covers all topics & solutions for UPSC 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for What is a key belief that distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Hinayana Buddhism?a)Worship of idols and imagesb)Use of Pali language by scholarsc)Emphasis on individual salvation through self-disciplined)Belief in universal liberation from the suffering of all beingsCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?.
What is a key belief that distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Hinayana Buddhism?a)Worship of idols and imagesb)Use of Pali language by scholarsc)Emphasis on individual salvation through self-disciplined)Belief in universal liberation from the suffering of all beingsCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer? for UPSC 2025 is part of UPSC preparation. The Question and answers have been prepared according to the UPSC exam syllabus. Information about What is a key belief that distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Hinayana Buddhism?a)Worship of idols and imagesb)Use of Pali language by scholarsc)Emphasis on individual salvation through self-disciplined)Belief in universal liberation from the suffering of all beingsCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer? covers all topics & solutions for UPSC 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, meanings, examples, exercises and tests below for What is a key belief that distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Hinayana Buddhism?a)Worship of idols and imagesb)Use of Pali language by scholarsc)Emphasis on individual salvation through self-disciplined)Belief in universal liberation from the suffering of all beingsCorrect answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?.
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