Assertion(A): Hinayanists believed in individual salvation through self-discipline and meditation.

Reason (R): Mahayanists believed in the salvation of all with help and grace Buddha.

Choose the correct answer:

Key Points

• Hinayanists focused on individual salvation through self-discipline, meditation, and adherence to the teachings of Buddha.
• Mahayanists, on the other hand, emphasized the salvation of all beings, often relying on the grace of Bodhisattvas and Buddha.
• While both statements (A and R) are true, the reason (R) does not directly explain the assertion (A), as they reflect two distinct philosophies within Buddhism.
• Hinayana and Mahayana represent two major schools of Buddhist thought, differing in their approaches to salvation and spiritual practices.

Additional Information

• Hinayana (Theravada):
  • Hinayana, meaning "Lesser Vehicle," is focused on individual salvation and attaining Nirvana through self-effort.
  • It emphasizes strict adherence to the original teachings of Buddha and the Eightfold Path.
  • Hinayana practitioners aim to become an Arhat (one who has achieved liberation).
  • This school is prevalent in countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar.
• Mahayana:
  • Mahayana, meaning "Greater Vehicle," focuses on the salvation of all beings rather than individual enlightenment.
  • It introduces the concept of Bodhisattvas, compassionate beings who delay their own Nirvana to help others achieve liberation.
  • Mahayana texts include the Lotus Sutra and Heart Sutra, which expand on Buddha's teachings.
  • This school is widely practiced in countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Tibet.
• Buddhism Overview:
  • Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha), is a philosophy and religion that seeks liberation from suffering.
  • The core teachings include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
  • The two main branches of Buddhism are Hinayana (Theravada) and Mahayana, with Vajrayana emerging later as a subset of Mahayana.
• Key Concepts:
  • Nirvana: Liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (Samsara).
  • Bodhisattva: Enlightened beings who work for the benefit of others.
  • Eightfold Path: A set of practices to achieve enlightenment, including right speech, action, and mindfulness.