Mahāyāna, which literally means “Great Vehicle,” is one of the major branches of Buddhism that originated in India and later spread to various parts of Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. Characterized by its emphasis on the bodhisattva ideal, Mahāyāna Buddhism teaches that enlightenment is attainable for all sentient beings and promotes the pursuit of wisdom, ethical conduct, and compassion for the benefit of all. Unlike the tradition of Theravāda Buddhism, which focuses primarily on individual liberation through monastic life, Mahāyāna encompasses a variety of practices and doctrines aimed at both individual and collective liberation. The tradition is known for its rich philosophical texts, including the Prajnaparamita (“Perfection of Wisdom”) sutras (such as The Heart Sutra) and The Lotus Sūtra, as well as for various schools of thought such as Zen Buddhism, Pure Land, and Tibetan Buddhism. It also introduced the concept of skillful means (upaya), which allows for a more flexible and adaptive approach to spiritual practice. Over the centuries, Mahāyāna has had a profound influence on the religious, cultural, and philosophical landscapes of East and Central Asia.
The Buddhist Scriptures originated in India in the 6th century before Christ, then spread throughout Asia - including Nepal , Sri Lanka , Myanmar , Thailand , Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Tibet , China , Japan, Korea, Mongolia, Bhutan, Indonesia, Taiwan & Singapore — giving rise to various sacred traditions and texts.
The Tipiṭaka serves as the foundational canon for Theravāda Buddhism.