topic south-asia ★ seed

Mahayana Buddhism

The 'Great Vehicle' — emerged ~1st century CE. Bodhisattva ideal: delay your own enlightenment to help all sentient beings. Expanded canon with new sutras. Dominant in East Asia.

#mahayana #bodhisattva #compassion #east-asia

Sub-topics

Pure Land Buddhism concept

Devotion to Amitabha Buddha for rebirth in the Western Pure Land. Most popular Mahayana school in East Asia. Salvation through faith and recitation of Amitabha's name (nembutsu/nianfo).

Zen / Chan Buddhism concept

Originated as Chan in 6th century China, transmitted to Japan as Zen. Direct pointing to the mind, seeing one's true nature. Zazen (sitting meditation), koans, and minimalist aesthetics.

Nichiren Buddhism concept

Founded by Nichiren in 1253, Japan. Devotion to the Lotus Sutra as the supreme teaching. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo. Includes modern Soka Gakkai International (~12 million members).

Tendai / Tiantai concept

Founded by Zhiyi in 6th century China, brought to Japan by Saicho in 805. Lotus Sutra as supreme. Comprehensive system integrating all Buddhist teachings. Mother of Japanese Buddhism — Zen, Pure Land, and Nichiren all emerged from Tendai.