Buddhism Huston Smith II

1. The three dividing questions in buddhism mainly concern themselves with the importance of different elements of life. The first question asks if humans are interdependent on each other, living in a tight knit community, or if the independence of each man is more important. The second question asks if the universe is indifferent to humans or if it is connected to humanity. The third question asks whether compassion or wisdom is a more important trait. These divisions in the weighing of importance caused buddhism to split.

2. The primary difference between the two major buddhist schools stems from a disagreement about how to reach enlightenment. Mayahana states that Compassion and Wisdom are essentially the same thing and that by practicing them, one will reach enlightenment. Theravada claims that enlightenment may only be reached through life long study and acquisition of wisdom which is distinct from compassion. (compassion is not ignored in Theravada, one's wisdom should teach them compassion). Mayahana is called the Great Raft for its focus on helping others and its all encompassing nature, where Theravada (originally called Hinayana meaning little raft) is now called the way of the elders on account of the focus on wisdom.

3. Theravada:

- Emphasis on individual's journey to enlightenment

- Humans are solo in this universe and are not connected to it

- Wisdom is key

- Strict social structure of monks

- Goal is to be Arhat, in a state of perfect concentration

- Metaphysical interpretation of Buddha (Some sort of deity)

Mayahana:

- Everyone is interconnected and enlightenment must be reached collectively

- There is a force in the universe that guides humans

- Compassion is key

- No social structures

- Helping others reach nirvana once you've reached it is important

- Buddha was entirely human, with no divine characteristics