Unit 3: Buddhism
Table of Contents
Buddhism is a Nāstika (heterodox) school founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha). It provides a "Middle Path" (Madhyamā Pratipad) which avoids the extremes of both self-indulgence (like Cārvāka) and severe asceticism. The core of Buddhist philosophy is interconnected and can be understood through its foundational doctrines.
Schools of Buddhism
After the Buddha's death, scholarly debates over the correct interpretation of his teachings led to the formation of various schools. The main division is between the Hīnayāna and Mahāyāna traditions.
| Feature | Hīnayāna ("Lesser Vehicle") | Mahāyāna ("Greater Vehicle") |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Arhat-ship (individual liberation). | Bodhisattva-ship (liberation for all beings). |
| Ideal Figure | The Arhat (perfected saint). | The Bodhisattva (who postpones Nirvāṇa to help others). |
| View of Buddha | A human teacher, a great saint (but still human). | A transcendent, divine principle. (Trikāya doctrine). |
| Key Concept | Focus on Dukkha and Anātman (No-Self). | Focus on Śūnyatā (Emptiness) and Karunā (Compassion). |
| Major Schools | Theravāda (the only surviving Hīnayāna school), Sautrāntika, Vaibhāṣika. | Madhyamaka (founded by Nāgārjuna), Yogācāra (founded by Asaṅga). |