Mahayana for Dummies
noun
pronunciation: ,mɑhə'jɑnəWhat does Mahayana really mean?
Hey there! So, "Mahayana" is a word that comes from the Sanskrit language and it's often used in the context of Buddhism. It's a little bit of a tricky word, but I'll do my best to explain it to you in a way that makes sense!
So, let's break it down. "Maha" means "great" or "large" and "yana" means "vehicle" or "path." So, when you put them together, "Mahayana" can be thought of as the "great vehicle" or the "great path." In Buddhism, it refers to a particular tradition or school of thought that emphasizes compassion, the idea that all beings have the potential for enlightenment, and the belief in the existence of multiple Buddhas and bodhisattvas.
Imagine if Buddhism were a big, bustling city and "Mahayana" were one of the different neighborhoods within that city. Each neighborhood has its own unique style and way of doing things, but they're all part of the bigger city. In the same way, "Mahayana" is a particular way of practicing Buddhism that has its own customs, teachings, and beliefs, but it's still connected to the larger Buddhist tradition.
So, when you hear someone talking about "Mahayana" Buddhism, they're referring to this specific branch or approach to the religion that focuses on things like compassion, community, and the idea that everyone has the potential to achieve enlightenment.
Does that all make sense to you? I know it's a lot to take in, but I hope that helps clarify what "Mahayana" means!
Revised and Fact checked by James Thompson on 2023-12-01 20:52:00
Mahayana In a sentece
Learn how to use Mahayana inside a sentece
- Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the idea of compassion and the belief that all beings have the potential to become enlightened.
- In Mahayana Buddhism, practitioners strive to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings.
- The concept of bodhisattva, a being who is dedicated to attaining enlightenment for the sake of others, is central to Mahayana Buddhism.
- Mahayana scriptures include texts such as the Diamond Sutra and the Heart Sutra, which are revered by followers of this tradition.
- In Mahayana Buddhism, the goal is to achieve liberation not only for oneself, but for all beings, leading to the idea of interconnectedness and interdependence.
Mahayana Synonyms
Words that can be interchanged for the original word in the same context.
Mahayana Hypernyms
Words that are more generic than the original word.
Mahayana Hyponyms
Words that are more specific than the original word.
Mahayana Has Members
Words that belong to the group defined by the original word.