Major Buddhist Traditions

Mahayana Buddhism

Known as the 'Great Vehicle' of Buddhism. Mahayana Buddhism generally spread north through India to China, Japan.

Mahayana Buddhism stresses:

• Buddhism is for the masses not just monks
  
• The role of the Bodhisattva - altruistic beings working for improvement of world. - Everyone has capacity to be a Bodhisattva
  
• Non Dualism - Ultimate reality beyond all divisions
  
• Living in the present moment

Theravada Buddhism.

• ("The School of the Elders")
• Generally spread south to Sri Lanka, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia.
  
• Often referred to as 'original Buddhism' Closest to oldest recording teachings (Pali Cannon) of the Buddha.
  
• Close relationship between lay followers and monastic communities.
  Theravada Buddhism is a big part of daily life in countries like Thailand
  

Vipassana (Insight Meditation)

- popular in West, related to Theravada Buddhism. Emphasises - control of breath and retreats

Pure Land Buddhism

A more devotional form of Buddhism. Less emphasis on meditation more on belief and devotion to Amitabha - a transcendental being who exists beyond limits of time and space in your own heart. - Pure Land Buddhism stresses practise rather than study.

Zen Buddhism

• Based on simple, pure insight.
• Developed in China and Japan.
  
• Often taught through 'Zen Masters' adepts of meditation, known for their quirky traditions
• Little formal ritual. Emphasises Zazen (sitting meditation)

Varjayana - Tibetan Buddhism

• Developed out of Indian Mahayana. Most popular division of Varjayana Buddhism is the Tibetan Buddhism.
• Includes hidden esoteric (Tantric) teachings not revealed during the Buddha's life
• More colourful form of Buddhism, music, chanting, mantras, mudras, mystic diagrams. Deity Yoga e.g. Goddess Tara
• Tibetan Buddhism became deeply entrenched in Tibetan society, linked to Feudal system. Though 14th Dalai Lama has sought to more Tibetan Buddhism more towards democracy.

Hinayana Buddhism

Often used as a definition opposite to Mahayana Buddhism. Sometimes used in a pejorative way. Means small vehicle - as opposed to large vehicle. Some suggest this is actually closer to original teachings of the Buddha.

Modern Buddhist Movements

Shambhala Buddhism 

• - essentially derived from Tibetan Buddhism, emphasising Mindfulness. Also includes aspects of Zen Buddhism, especially in aesthetics.
• Introduced by Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche  

New Kadampa Tradition 

- Mahayana Buddhist school founded by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso 

Friends of the Western Buddhist Order 

A modern, universal Buddhist division. Is said to be ecumenical not being affiliated to any particular tradition.

•  Lord Buddha
• Buddhism General