Schools of Buddhism

The Buddha adapted his teachings to suit different peoples' needs and capacities. There is a rich variety to be found within his teachings, ranging from the simple to the profound.

Soon after his death the first division in Buddhism occurred with the formation of the Hinayana (Lesser Vehicle) and the Mahayana (Greater Vehicle) traditions. Later Hinayana Buddhism became known as Theravada Buddhism (Path of the Elders). As Buddhism spread, it was influenced by local traditions, religions and cultures. Each nation developed its own distinct form of Buddhism:

• Theravada Buddhism primarily practiced in South-East Asian countries such as Sri Lanka and Thailand.
• Mahayana Buddhism practiced in North Asian countries such as China, Tibet, Japan and Nepal. Various schools, such as Zen in Japan, Pure Land in China, and Tantric Buddhism in Tibet, reflect the unique character of the country itself.

Buddhism has spread throughout the West, where the many schools of Buddhism are flourishing.

back