Question

Which one of the following is the most fundamental difference between Mahayana Buddhism and Hinayana Buddhism ?
a. Emphasis on Ahimsa
b. Casteless Society
c. Worship of Gods and Goddesses
d. Worship of supta

Answer 1

Hint:
Buddhism was founded by Gautama Siddhartha in ancient India around the 5th or 6th century .
Buddhism is one of the major religions of the world. Its practice is most prominent in East Asia.

Complete step by step solution:
Hinayana and Mahayana, both preached the four immeasurable attitudes of love, compassion, joy and equanimity. Despite few equalities among the sub religions, they had their differences too:

- Followers of Hinayana believed in the original teaching of Buddha, Whereas the followers of Mahayana believed in the heavenliness of Buddha.
- Hinayana followers aspired for individual redemption through persistence and meditation, Whereas the Mahayana followers aspired for redemption of all through the grace of Buddha and Bodhisattva.
- Hinayana followers did not believe in Idol worship whereas Mahayana Followers believed in Idol Worship.
- The Preaching of Hinayana was done in Pali language whereas the Mahayana teachings were held in Sanskrit.

Hence, the correct answer is option C.

Note:
Buddhism is divided into two major subdivisions: Hinayana and Mahayana.
Hinayana means “ A small vehicle or a small sect” whereas Mahayana means “ Larger vehicle or wider path”.