Main Principles of Buddhism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 7

Main Principles of Buddhism - Essay Example There are varied differences between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism. In his work, Chodron (2001) indicates that Theravada puts a lot of focus on the Pali Canon or the Tripitaka whilst the Mahayana uses the books of Theravada Tripitaka and other sutras like the Lotus Sutra. In terms of Buddhas, Theravada is more inclined on the historical Buddha- the Gautama.   Mahayana applies the Gautama Buddha and other Buddhas like the medicine Buddhas and Amitabha (Chodron, 2001). With Theravada being located in the Southern- notable Thailand, Burma, Laos, Cambodia and other parts of S.E. Asia- and Mahayana on the Northern part, their goals of training are different. Theravada teaches Arhat while Mahayana Buddha hood through the bodhisattva-path (Chodron, 2001). The languages are also different, Pali for Theravada and Sanskrit for Mahayana (Chodron, 2001). Theravada has few rituals that are not closely followed while Mahayana has numerous that are determined by local pressures on their culture s.In Buddhism, the reason for living is to be happy. Chodron (2001) argues that it is difficult to achieve this happiness as the world is full of uncertainties that cause discontent. In this case, individuals are expected to search their souls in the quest to attain happiness, since it is believed happiness comes from within an individual.