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How Does the Concept of Enlightenment Vary Across the Major Schools of Buddhism?

The idea of enlightenment is viewed differently in the main types of Buddhism. Here’s a simpler breakdown:

  1. Theravada:

    • This branch focuses on personal enlightenment, called Nirvana.
    • It teaches the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path to help reach this goal.
    • Only about 0.1% of people who practice this path reach enlightenment.
  2. Mahayana:

    • This branch emphasizes helping others reach enlightenment, known as Buddhahood.
    • It introduces the idea of the Bodhisattva, who delays their own Nirvana to assist others.
    • About 55% of Buddhists worldwide follow this path.
  3. Vajrayana:

    • This branch uses special practices and rituals.
    • It believes enlightenment can be achieved in just one lifetime.
    • Roughly 6% of Buddhists, including those who practice Tibetan Buddhism, are part of this group.

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Click HERE to see similar posts for other categories

How Does the Concept of Enlightenment Vary Across the Major Schools of Buddhism?

The idea of enlightenment is viewed differently in the main types of Buddhism. Here’s a simpler breakdown:

  1. Theravada:

    • This branch focuses on personal enlightenment, called Nirvana.
    • It teaches the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path to help reach this goal.
    • Only about 0.1% of people who practice this path reach enlightenment.
  2. Mahayana:

    • This branch emphasizes helping others reach enlightenment, known as Buddhahood.
    • It introduces the idea of the Bodhisattva, who delays their own Nirvana to assist others.
    • About 55% of Buddhists worldwide follow this path.
  3. Vajrayana:

    • This branch uses special practices and rituals.
    • It believes enlightenment can be achieved in just one lifetime.
    • Roughly 6% of Buddhists, including those who practice Tibetan Buddhism, are part of this group.

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