Mahayana Buddhism embodies the teachings that aim to transport countless beings across the sea of suffering to enlightenment. In Buddhist philosophy, the idea of a vehicle serves as a metaphor, and so, Mahayana literally means “great vehicle.” Among the three vehicles—those of the hearers, the solitary realizers, and the bodhisattvas— the bodhisattva path of practice distinguishes Mahayana teachings. Further, Mahayana is also referred to as the “Mahayana Teachings.”
This profound tradition did not stem directly from the Buddha, though it carries his fundamental spirit. It was established later, between 150 and 250 CE, by Nagarjuna, a pivotal figure in Indian Buddhism, often hailed as the “Second Buddha.” Nagarjuna’s influential texts, such as the Mūlamadhyamakakārikā, the Mahāprajñāpāramitopadeśa, and the Daśabhūmika-vibhāṣā, are foundational to this school. Consequently, these scriptures form the very essence of Mahayana thought, with Nagarjuna honored as a patriarch by both Chinese and Tibetan Buddhists.
The Essence of Mahayana: The Great Vehicle
In general, the term Mahayana contrasts with Hinayana, meaning the “lesser vehicle.” On the path of spiritual practices, Mahayana emphasizes the bodhisattva ideal, stressing “self-benefit, benefiting others, and benefiting all beings.” This also includes practicing the “six perfections.” “Maha” connotes immensity, elevation, and immeasurability, while “yana” signifies a path or vehicle. Ultimately, the aim of Mahayana practice is the complete liberation of all, so, it is an awakening to perfect Buddhahood. This means, establishing Buddha-fields filled with purity. Therefore, such efforts express a commitment to benefiting everyone.
Core Philosophical Principles of Mahayana
This school expands on the Buddha’s teachings. For example, it reinforces equality and universal compassion. The emphasis rests on self-awakening, leading others to awakening, and helping all sentient beings. All these aspects compose the Bodhicitta—the heart of a bodhisattva. Both in theory and in practice, Mahayana Buddhism offers a deeper and broader path. It strives toward ultimate Enlightenment. These principles stem from the early Buddhist schools and elucidate ideas like equality and the potential for every being to attain Buddhahood. By such means, they form a comprehensive spiritual practice.
Moreover, the ways to transmit Mahayana focus on practice and faith. This path values pragmatism. Moreover, its methods vary according to individuals and circumstances. Flexible and accessible, Mahayana stresses compassion. Further, it promotes universal liberation. Hence, it seeks to remain closely linked to life itself. Equality was a large part of the Buddha’s original teaching, directly contrasting the strict caste system of ancient India. So, such ideals of universal liberation are core to Mahayana teachings, signifying the core values of Buddha’s Dharma.
Mahayana Buddhism’s Entry Into China
The introduction of Mahayana Buddhism to China began around the 1st century CE. Still, it was during the late Eastern Han Dynasty that Buddhist texts became widely available due to the translation of scriptures. An Shigao and Lokaksema were significant translators at this time. They worked on early Buddhist and Mahayana Buddhist scriptures, meaning these paths were introduced nearly at the same time. Over many centuries, Mahayana Buddhism blossomed, thereby giving rise to diverse schools like Chan (Zen), Pure Land, Huayan (Avatamsaka), and Faxiang (Yogacara).
However, despite diverse traditions within Buddhism, the foundation comes from the original Buddha, Shakyamuni. Ultimately, there are no two vehicles. All paths lead to liberation. Both the Mahayana path and earlier teachings represent deep wisdom. These differences exist because practitioners have varying abilities, therefore should not be ranked in worthiness. These should not be perceived as superior or inferior, due to worldly perception.
So, whatever path you decide to take on this spiritual journey, aim to transcend limitations. Strive forward and may your practice evolve with the Dharma. So doing will bring you to the Buddha land, far beyond any suffering.
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