Mahayana (Great Vehicle) Buddhism

大乗仏教

General Definition:

• One of two great
  schools of Buddhist doctrine that emphasizes a common search for universal
  salvation.

In-Depth Information

• Mahayana Buddhism originated in India and is currently the dominant religion of China, Tibet, and Japan.
  
• Mahāyāna also refers to the path of seeking complete enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings.
• Mahayana Buddhists hope not to become arhats but Bodhisattvas.
• Mahayana Buddhists teach that enlightenment can be attained in a single lifetime, and this can be accomplished even by a layperson.
• The Mahayana form of Buddhism tends to be more religious in nature, including veneration of celestial beings, Buddhas and Boddhisatvas, ceremonies, religious rituals, magical rites, and the use of icons, images, and other sacred objects.