Definition

Proper noun 1. A major school of Buddhism: Mahayana is one of the two primary existing branches of Buddhism. It emphasizes the ideal of the bodhisattva, a being who seeks enlightenment not only for themselves but for the benefit of all sentient beings. Its doctrines often focus on universal salvation, compassion, and the use of skillful means. 2. The associated body of teachings and practices: The term also refers to the vast collection of sutras, philosophical systems, and meditative practices that characterize this tradition.

Usage Examples

• As a proper noun (school/tradition):

  • Mahayana Buddhism spread from India to China, Tibet, and Japan.
  • The concept of emptiness is central to Mahayana philosophy.
  • She studies Mahayana scriptures like the Lotus Sutra.

• Referring to its teachings:

  • The monk dedicated his life to the practice of Mahayana.
  • Mahayana offers a path to liberation through wisdom and compassion.

Advanced Usage & Context

• Historical and Geographical Context: Mahayana Buddhism became the dominant form of Buddhism in East Asia (China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam) and the Himalayan regions (Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Mongolia). It is often contrasted with Theravada Buddhism, which is predominant in Southeast Asia.
• Core Concepts: Key Mahayana concepts include Sunyata (emptiness), Karuna (compassion), the Bodhisattva Ideal, and Upaya (skillful means). It encompasses diverse schools such as Zen, Pure Land, and Tibetan Buddhism.

Variants and Related Words

• Mahayanist (noun): An adherent or practitioner of Mahayana Buddhism.
  • The scholar was a devoted Mahayanist.
• Mahayanic (adjective): Pertaining to Mahayana Buddhism.
  • They studied Mahayanic texts.

Synonyms

• The Great Vehicle: This is a direct translation of "Mahayana" and is often used synonymously to describe its inclusive path.
• Northern Buddhism: A geographical designation sometimes used historically to refer to the Mahayana traditions that spread north from India.

Related Terms & Contrasts

• Theravada: The other major surviving school of Buddhism, which emphasizes the path of the arhat and the preservation of the earliest teachings.
• Bodhisattva: A central figure in Mahayana, a being who vows to achieve Buddhahood for the sake of all beings.
• Hinayana: A term used in some Mahayana texts to refer to earlier Buddhist schools; it is often considered pejorative and "Theravada" is the preferred contemporary term for the non-Mahayana branch.

Noun

1. one of two great schools of Buddhist doctrine emphasizing a common search for universal salvation especially through faith alone; the dominant religion of China and Tibet and Japan
2. a major school of Buddhism teaching social concern and universal salvation; China; Japan; Tibet; Nepal; Korea; Mongolia