Mahayana

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes compassion and the goal of helping all beings achieve enlightenment. Unlike some traditions focused on individual liberation, Mahayana encourages practitioners to act selflessly to support others’ spiritual growth. It introduces concepts like the Bodhisattva—an enlightened being who remains in the world to aid suffering beings—and values diverse teachings, rituals, and practices. Mahayana is practiced mainly in East Asia, including countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. It seeks to expand spiritual wisdom and compassion through a flexible, inclusive approach aimed at universal salvation.