What Is Mahayana Buddhism?
If you start reading about Buddhism, you’ll quickly notice there are different “schools” or traditions. Words like Theravada, Zen, and Vajrayana might come up. At Sakya Thubten Ling, we follow the Mahayana tradition, specifically the Tibetan Sakya lineage. We also practice Vajrayana Buddhism, which is considered an addition or extension of Mahayana. We’ll explain more about Vajrayana in a later post. But for now, let’s focus on understanding Mahayana Buddhism and what makes it unique.
What is Mahayana Buddhism? The “Great Vehicle”
The word Mahayana literally means “The Great Vehicle.” It is one of the main branches of Buddhism, alongside Theravada and Vajrayana. While all Buddhist traditions share the same core foundation such as the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, Mahayana Buddhism offers a unique vision and motivation.
In early Buddhism, particularly in the Theravada tradition, the main goal was often individual liberation from suffering. You practice diligently to reach Nirvana, a state free from all suffering and rebirth. This is a noble but deeply personal goal.
Mahayana Buddhism asks a different question: Is it enough to save only myself?
Imagine you are in a burning building. You find the exit and are about to run to safety, but then you see your family, friends, and even strangers still inside. Would you leave alone? Or would you turn back to help?
Mahayana Buddhism is about turning back. It is about saving not just yourself but all sentient beings.
The Bodhisattva Ideal: The Heart of Mahayana Buddhism
The key figure in Mahayana Buddhism is the Bodhisattva (pronounced bod-hi-satt-va). A Bodhisattva is someone who is on the path to enlightenment and makes a radical vow: “I will not attain final Nirvana until all beings are free from suffering.”
This vow shifts the focus of practice from the individual to the collective. The Bodhisattva embodies universal compassion and selfless motivation.
At Sakya Thubten Ling, we deeply honour this ideal. It is about walking the path with kindness, patience, and a commitment to help others. The Bodhisattva is the spiritual hero who leads by example.
Why is Motivation So Important in Mahayana Buddhism?
What sets Mahayana apart is its emphasis on motivation. It is not just what you do that matters, but why you do it.
Meditation and ethical conduct are not just ways to feel better or improve yourself. They become tools to awaken compassion and wisdom so you can benefit others. Your practice becomes an act of loving service to the world.
In Mahayana, two qualities are seen as the “wings” that enable spiritual flight.
Wisdom (Prajna) means seeing reality clearly and understanding the true nature of suffering and emptiness.
Compassion (Karuna) means acting with kindness and a sincere desire to help others.
Together, these guide every thought, word, and deed.
What Does Mahayana Buddhism Teach About Everyone?
Another unique aspect of Mahayana Buddhism is the teaching of Buddha Nature. This means every being, no matter how lost or troubled, has the potential to awaken. Enlightenment is not reserved for a few monks or sages; it is the innate potential in all of us. Your mistakes and challenges do not disqualify you from this potential. They are part of the path.
This belief makes Mahayana incredibly inclusive and hopeful. It invites everyone to participate in the journey of awakening.
How Does Mahayana Buddhism Affect Daily Life?
At our centre, we teach that Mahayana Buddhism is not just about monastic robes or rituals. It is about transforming how you live every day.
When you meditate, you are not just calming your mind, you are cultivating patience and kindness so you can better support your family, friends, and community.
When you speak, you practice honesty and gentleness to bring harmony rather than conflict.
When you work, you seek to contribute positively to the world.
Mahayana Buddhism calls for a living compassion by practicing kindness and wisdom in every moment.
Where Does Vajrayana Fit In?
You may also hear about Vajrayana Buddhism, sometimes called Tibetan Buddhism or the “Diamond Vehicle.” Vajrayana is actually considered a part of the broader Mahayana tradition but with additional practices involving rituals, mantras, and visualisations.
At Sakya Thubten Ling, we follow the Tibetan Sakya lineage, which combines Mahayana philosophy with Vajrayana methods. This powerful blend helps deepen understanding and accelerate spiritual growth but the heart remains the Bodhisattva ideal.
Why Choose Mahayana Buddhism?
If you are wondering whether to explore Buddhism, Mahayana offers a big-hearted approach that connects your personal practice to the wellbeing of all beings.
It is a practical guide for developing both wisdom and compassion.
It is an inclusive, hopeful teaching that believes in everyone’s ability to awaken.
It is a community (Sangha) where you can learn, practice, and grow together.
At Sakya Thubten Ling, we warmly welcome beginners to explore these teachings. Whether you want to reduce stress, find meaning, or deepen your compassion, Mahayana Buddhism offers a rich, inspiring path.
What’s Next?
In our next post, we will explore one of the most misunderstood topics in Buddhism: Karma and rebirth. What is karma really? Is it fate, punishment, or something else? Stay tuned as we unravel the truth behind this powerful teaching.
