Mahayana

1 Pages 212 Words

Buddhism teaches that there are three alternatives for attaining the final goal of Nirvana. Firstly there is the Arahant Ideal which is emphasised by the Sthaviravada or as it is currently known - the Theravada. This is release from the Samsara by following the teachings of an enlightened Buddha by the cultivation of Sila (Good Conduct), Samadhi (Mental cultivation or meditation) and Prajna (Trancendental Wisdom of seeing things as they really are).
The Mahayana, on the other hand, emphasises the Bodhisattva Ideal of postponing one's liberation so that one may bring all sentient beings with you to that state of Nirvana by becoming a fully enlightened Buddha. The Mahayanists, perhaps, wrongly claim that the Arahant Ideal of the Theravadins is selfish because it limits the release to oneself. Arahants, although lacking the higher wisdom of a Buddha, also teach and also must transcend the idea of self and greed, so such a charge seems unjustified. The Theravadins also suggest that attaining Buddhahood is the highest ideal but it is difficult and beyond most people's capabilities.
The final method of liberation is that of a Pratyeka Buddha. One who usually arises during a world period when the Buddha Dharma is extinct and attains Buddhahood through self realisation but is incapable of teaching others....