Mahayana vs Theravada Buddhism: How to Choose for Beginners

If you are new to Buddhism, you might be curious about what school of Buddhism to follow, and what makes them different.

There are two major branches of Buddhism: Mahāyāna and Theravāda. While the heart or core of both branches is the same, how they interpret and practice the teachings of the Buddha can and do differ. This is important for those living in Western countries who are becoming a Buddhist and are deciding which one to follow.

Rest assured, either branch is an excellent choice for a Westerner exploring Buddhism! While there are differences, primarily around the interpretation and practice of certain teachings, they are all rooted in the same home or heart of Buddhism. So, the major concepts are covered in both branches.

However, the diversity of schools available to you, and all the information online, does make this more of an overwhelming choice!

This video will give you a quick overview of the two branches, what is similar, what is different, and remember: you will be fine practicing in either school!

Learn more about Mahayana and Theravada in my article here: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/underst...

Learn about the Buddhist scriptures in my article here:
https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddhis...

Chapters

0:00 Introduction
0:20 Laypersons & How to Choose
2:40 The Three Vehicles/Paths (Yanas)
9:36 Mahayana and Theravada Geographically
11:45 Buddhavacana (Word of the Buddha) and Mahayana & Theravada
13:39 Ancient India and Buddhist Schools Scriptural Canons
17:00 Mahayana Sutras and Early Buddhism
18:30 Buddhist Scriptures and the Vehicles/Paths
19:47 Doctrinal Differences (Buddha, Buddhanature, Bodhisattvas)
23:18 Nirvana
25:43 Sunyata (Emptiness)
27:25 Becoming a Monastic vs Layperson
30:20 Questions?

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