Tibetan Tantric buddhism Dharma

Buddhism Types

Buddhism types jpg

Three main Buddhism types exist:

  • Hinayana
  • Mahayana
  • Vajrayana

I practice Tibetan Buddhism, a Vajrayana system.

See Buddhism Symbols and Buddhism Beliefs.

Buddhism Types: A Journey Through Traditions

Buddhism is a profound spiritual tradition that has influenced countless lives across the globe. With its rich diversity of teachings and practices, it has evolved into various forms over the centuries. In this blog post, we’ll explore the entity knowledge graph of Buddhism, shedding light on its three main types and their respective elements.

Theravada Buddhism

Theravada Buddhism, also known as the “Doctrine of the Elders,” is the oldest surviving branch of Buddhism. It is predominantly practiced in the following countries:

  • Sri Lanka
  • Thailand
  • Myanmar
  • Cambodia
  • Laos
  • Bangladesh

The Theravada tradition places significant emphasis on the Tipitaka, a collection of sacred texts containing the teachings of the Buddha, as well as various commentaries. Theravada practices revolve around Vipassana Meditation, monastic life, and the study of the Dhamma (Buddhist teachings).

How to meditate like a yogi
and enter profound samadhi

Mahayana – Buddhism Types

Mahayana Buddhism, or the “Great Vehicle,” emerged several centuries after the Buddha’s death and is widely practiced in:

  • China
  • Japan
  • Korea
  • Vietnam
  • Taiwan

The Mahayana tradition draws upon a vast collection of sacred texts, including Sutras, Shastras, and commentaries. Chanting, meditation, and devotional practices form the core of Mahayana practices. Additionally, Mahayana Buddhism encompasses various traditions, such as:

  • Pure Land Buddhism
  • Zen Buddhism
  • Vajrayana Buddhism
  • Nichiren Buddhism
  • Tiantai Buddhism

Vajrayana – Buddhism Types

Vajrayana Buddhism, also known as Tantric Buddhism or the “Diamond Vehicle,” is a form of Mahayana Buddhism that originated in India and later spread to other regions, including:

  • Tibet
  • Nepal
  • Bhutan
  • Mongolia
  • Parts of India

The Vajrayana tradition draws upon sacred texts like Tantras, Sutras, and commentaries. Vajrayana practices involve tantric practices, meditation, mantra recitation, and deity visualization.

This entity knowledge graph provides a comprehensive overview of the various branches of Buddhism, their geographical distribution, sacred texts, and practices. As you delve deeper into each tradition, you’ll discover a rich tapestry of teachings, rituals, and wisdom that have inspired generations of seekers on their spiritual journey.

Remember, this knowledge graph is just a starting point; there is much more to explore and uncover within the vast and profound realm of Buddhism.

Dedication of Merit

May all beings be happy

May all beings be peaceful

May all beings be safe

May all beings awaken to the light of their true nature

May all beings be free