Common Roots Run Deep: While the various sects and followers of the Buddha?s teachings may vary, the core values established by The Buddha are still shared by all Buddhists. Their methods may differ, the ultimate goal of enlightenment through patient discipline, meditation, right living, and compassion for all life is a common thread that runs deep through all Buddhist thought and tradition. It is proper to say that Mahayana Buddhism is an extension or continuation of Theravada Buddhism, but without there first being Theravada, there could be no Mahayana. Major Differences Between Theravadan & Mahayanan Traditions: Theravada Buddhism Intense, dedicated and time-consuming effort required to attain enlightenment. Reaching Nirvana is the ultimate goal of the Theravada Buddhist. Strives for wisdom first. Centers on meditation, and requires personal dedication such as being a monk or nun. Followed as a teaching or Philosophy. Moved primarily South and West covering Indochina and Ceylon (Sri-Lanka). Early work written in Pali (e.g. kamma, dhamma). Mahayana Buddhism Enlightenment is achieved through a normal life with varying degrees of spiritual involvement. Vow to be reborn in order to help all other sentient beings reach Nirvana first. Compassion is the highest virtue. Encourages practice in the world and among the general community. Followed with reference to higher beings, more like a religion. Moved Primarily North and West, covering China, Korea, Japan, and Tibet. Early texts are in Sanskrit (e.g. karma, dharma) References: "Mahayana Buddhism," at: http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/ Graeme Lyall "The Rise of Mahayana," at: http://www.zip.com.au/~lyallg/RiseMahyan.htm Molly C. King, "Bodhisattva," at: http://web.presby.edu/~gramsey/ Mary Hendriks, "The History, Philosophy and Practice of Buddhism -Buddhism in Japan" at: http://www.acay.com.au/~silkroad/ Mary Hendriks, "The History, Philosophy and Practice of Buddhism -Mahayana Buddhism and Theravadan Buddhism," at: http://www.acay.com.au/~silkroad/buddha/h_early.htm Stephen Evans, "Basic Points Unifying The Theravada and the Mahayana," at: http://www.serve.com/cmtan/buddhism/Misc/unify.html Mary Hendriks, "The History, Philosophy and Practice of Buddhism," at: http://www.acay.com.au/~silkroad/buddha/ Main Source (copy n' paste): http://www.religioustolerance.org/budd_mah.htm