As Buddhism spread throughout the world, several schools of thought
developed, each with its own take on the religion. There are two main branches
of Buddhism: Theravada, also called the Path of the Elders, which took hold in South
Asia, and Mayahana, also known as the Greater Vehicle, which was
prevalent in East Asia. In Tibet,
Vajrayana, also known as Diamond Vehicle and as Tantric Buddhism, took root.
Theravada, also known as the Path of the Elders, has adhered more closely to
the principles established when the religion was young. Followers of this path
say it is more in keeping with the Buddha’s original teachings. According to
Theravada, only people who are very spiritually advanced can reach nirvana in
their lifetime.
Mayahana Buddhism, also called the Greater Vehicle, has been more welcoming
of new ideas, and unlike Theravada, says that all people can achieve
enlightenment, as opposed to only monks and nuns. It is not clear exactly how
Mayahana developed, but it is known that it came into existence between the
second century B.C.E. and the first century C.E.
Vajrayana Buddhism is a combination of traditional Buddhist principles and
Tantric aspects of Hinduism. Vajrayana Buddhists use several tools to help them
achieve Buddhahood, including rituals, mantras and sacred diagrams. They have
also incorporated new elements into the religion, such as additional gods,
goddesses, Buddhas and other beings.