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Asked by: Nistor Mendialdua
religion and spirituality buddhismWhat is the difference between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism?
Simply so, what was the difference between Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism quizlet?
The original divide between theTheravadaand Mahayana thus began a dividebetween views on thelaity's possibility of enlightenment.The Theravada claimedthat only monks could achieve nirvana,whereas Mahayanaclaimed that both monks and laity couldachieve nirvana. Hinayana("the lesser vehicle").
Then, what does Theravada and Mahayana mean?
Literal Meaning. Mahayana means"Greatvehicle" Theravada means "teaching of the elders". Itrefersto the pure or original teachings of the Buddha over 2500yearsago.
THERAVADA BUDDHISM. TheravadaBuddhism("doctrine of the elders") is the oldest and mostorthodoxof Buddhism's three major sects. Theravada Buddhismissometimes referred to in a somewhat dismissing wayasHinayana (“Lesser Vehicle”) BuddhismbyMahayana Buddhists.