A Comparison Of Theravada And Mahayana Buddhism

Religion for most people around the world sets up guidelines in which they follow when it comes to certain subjects like war or taking away lives. Each religion has its own distinct way of handling those situations and its followers see it as the only right way. Throughout history, many wars have been formed because followers of certain religions believe that it is the right things to do when they are put in situations, however there are just as many religions that do not condone violence. As for taking the lives of criminals, different religions have their take whether is it is morally correct to do or not. In Asia, Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism have a similar outlook on what they should do about war and capital punishment, because they are known to be peace makers and pacifists. Although they have some similar positions on those criteria’s, their teachings and history differ in ways from one another. Through comparing and contrasting these two religions, one is able to view how two

Mahayana Buddhism had more violence in its teachings in the past, but through progress how now become anti-war because of the selfishness that It sprouts. Also, they may differ in teachings but the general Buddhist teaching are still applied to both and both desire to have the same end point. They aspire to live a life full of peace and happiness for not only themselves but for others as well. War is the complete opposite because of the negative effects it causes, and capital punishment harms a living life form when its time hasn’t come up yet. Both now believe that violence is not the answer and peace can be regain with nonviolence if they let selfish human traits become removed. To be able to break the cycle of reincarnation, both Buddhist religions must abide to the teachings of Buddha that discourages war and capital