 More liberal form of Buddhism  Mahayana means “Great Vehicle” Carrying any person to enlightenment  Primarily concentrated in China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam

 By the 1 st century, Mahayana became its own Buddhist party separate from Theravada.  Accepted new sutras written in Sanskrit credited to the Buddha.  Believed that one could attain enlightenment without being a monk.  Greatest Mahayana philosopher- Nagarjuna (2 main principles): Samsara and nirvana are really one and the same (emptiness) The world is fluid, constantly changing

 Believe that people can achieve enlightenment through the works of others  Hope to become bodhisattvas, or those who postpone entering nirvana in order to help others attain enlightenment  Because of this, some Mahayna sects have deities of sorts, remembered saints.

 Follow Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, Middle Way.  The ideal path for followers is to strive to become bodhisattvas.  Believe selfless action is more commendable than reaching enlightenment.  Their goal follow the way of Buddha and reach nirvana, but then share it with others, in other words, become a bodhisattva.

 Bodhisattvas help others to achieve nirvana and then they will be the last to enter enlightenment.  Compassion and wisdom are the highest virtues.  Emphasizes intuition and encourages practice out in the world.  Believe that the Buddha is the one sign of a power that is greater than common human knowledge

 One should strive to achieve eternal wisdom.  But also realize eternal wisdom does not exist.  Disconnect from all worldly thoughts, and desires.

Diets Diets of Mahayana Buddhist’s vary depending on location. There are only dietary restrictions and no clear distinction between what is permitted and forbidden. Some foods that are avoided by the majority of Buddhists, but not prohibited are: beef, pork, all meat, fish, and shellfish. Foods such as eggs and dairy are permitted, but not highly encouraged. Some only feel it is necessary to refrain from beef and feel that it is okay to eat fish. Some also believe that it is acceptable to eat meat unless they slaughter the animals themselves.

Worship Mahayana daily worship usually takes place in one’s home at a shrine. An image of the Buddha and a flower vase are usually present in the shrine. Annual worship is celebrated through festivals that celebrate the Buddha’s life. On the day of Buddha, his images are washed. Celebrated in Japan, China, and Korea on the 8 th day of the fourth lunar month. Mahayanas also celebrate the life of bodhisattva Kuan Yin. Her birthday is celebrated on the 19th day of the second lunar month, her enlightenment on the 19th day of the sixth month, and on the 19 th day of the ninth month her entry into nirvana is celebrated.

Prayer Mahayanas use prayer wheels while praying. These prayer wheels have been made for many centuries and are of many different styles and sizes. Some are simply hand-held or table-top wheels, while others are huge and up to twelve feet and six feet in diameters. “Buddhist teachers and the ancient texts expound the profound benefits of the Prayer Wheel for its ability to quickly harmonize the environment, increase compassion, encourage a peaceful state of mind, and assist practitioners on their journeys to enlightenment. (tibetanprayerwheeels.com)‏

Platform Sutra  Composed in China  Centered around sermons given at Shao Zhou temple  Discuss true Nature and Sudden Enlightenment Linji Lu  A Chinese Buddhist Scripture

 The Appearance Body is the body that is visible to the world, manifesting itself for the benefit of all beings.  The Dharma Body was the Buddha as the embodiment of truth.  The Enjoyment Body was the Buddha as he appears in the celestial realms to the Bodhisattvas.

 the perfection of giving  the perfection of ethics  the perfection of patience  the perfection of joyous effort  the perfection of concentration  the perfection of wisdom Video: opic/358037/Mahayana

A Life of Selflessness One must be utterly selfless to escape suffering This includes helping others to achieve a life of selflessness Selflessness should not be boasted or bragged about, or the purpose is solely defeated