Mahayana

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes universal compassion and the aspiration to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Mahayana, meaning "Great Vehicle" in Sanskrit, is one of the main branches of Buddhism, emerging around the 1st century CE. This Buddhist tradition is distinguished by its goal of bodhicitta, the aspiration to attain enlightenment not only for oneself but also for the benefit of all sentient beings. Mahayana emphasizes the path of the bodhisattva, an individual who, despite having the opportunity to reach nirvana, chooses to remain in the cycle of rebirths to help others achieve enlightenment. This branch of Buddhism has produced a rich body of literature, including major texts such as the Lotus Sutra and the Heart Sutra. Mahayana has also given rise to various schools and traditions, such as Zen, Pure Land Buddhism, and Vajrayana. The teachings of Mahayana have deeply influenced the culture and architecture of many Asian countries, notably China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam, where numerous temples and monasteries reflect its principles and aesthetics.