Consider the following:
- Deification of the Buddha
- Treading the path of Bodhisattvas
- Image worship and rituals
Which of the above is/are the feature/features of Mahayana Buddhism?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 4 — 1, 2 and 3
All three statements are defining features of Mahayana Buddhism, which emerged as a liberal and reform movement emphasizing universal salvation and compassionate Bodhisattvas.
✅ Statement 1 – Correct: Mahayana Buddhism deified the Buddha, portraying him as a transcendent, cosmic being with multiple manifestations, unlike Theravada's historical human Buddha.
✅ Statement 2 – Correct: The Bodhisattva ideal is central to Mahayana, where enlightened beings postpone their own nirvana to help all sentient beings achieve liberation.
✅ Statement 3 – Correct: Mahayana introduced elaborate image worship, rituals, and devotional practices centered around Buddha and Bodhisattva statues, making Buddhism more accessible to lay followers.
📝 Short Notes: Mahayana vs Theravada Buddhism
| Feature | Mahayana Buddhism | Theravada Buddhism |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Greater Vehicle | Way of the Elders |
| Buddha's Nature | Transcendent, divine being with multiple forms | Historical human teacher who attained enlightenment |
| Goal | Universal salvation for all beings | Individual enlightenment (Arhat) |
| Ideal | Bodhisattva path (compassion for all) | Arhat path (personal liberation) |
| Worship | Elaborate rituals, image worship, devotional practices | Meditation-focused, minimal rituals |
| Scriptures | Expanded canon including sutras like Lotus Sutra | Pali Canon (Tipitaka) |
| Geographic Spread | Tibet, China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia | Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia |
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