Question

Write above Hinayana and Mahayana.

Answer 1

• Hinayana –

1. The Hinayana was the original creed preached by Buddha.
2. The followers of this form regarded Buddha as their guru and did not worship him as God.
3. They denied idol worship and continued with the people’s language, Pali.

• Mahayana –

1. In Mahayana, Buddha was worshipped as God and Bodhisattuva as his previous avatar.
2. The followers made images and statues of Buddha and Bodhisattuva and offered prayers, and recited hymns (mantras) in their praise.
3. Later, they wrote their religious books in Sanskrit. This form of Buddhism was patronised
   by Kanishka.