Question

Identify three different schools of Buddhism. How are these schools similar in their beliefs and practices? How do they differ? Cite supporting information from the topic materials.

Answer 1

Three major schools of Buddhism are:

1. Theravada Buddhism: Theravada Buddhism is also referred to as mantrayana. This forms one of the two major schools of Buddhism. The roots would be back to Sthavira division, that had been created around 334 BCE. This would be differing from the other schools as it would be promoting the idea that critical analysis of the various sacred texts.
2. Mahayana Buddhism: Mahayana Buddhism is also referred to as one of the major schools of Buddhism. This is the school that would be having greater number of followers as compared to other schools. The total practitioners are 53.2%, approximately. This has led to Mahayana Buddhism.
3. Vajrayana buddhism: this has also been referred to as esoteric Buddhism. This is also referred to as another variation. A number of scholars, do consider this as another branch of Buddhism. It was believed by the scholars that vajrayana had emerged around the 3rd as well as 13th century.