Final answer:
The highest ideal in Mahayana Buddhism is to become a bodhisattva, while in early Buddhism (Theravada), it is to attain nirvana. Mahayana Buddhism reinterprets the Buddha's traditional teachings, while early Buddhism emphasizes living life according to the Eightfold Path.
Step-by-step explanation:
Characteristics of Mahayana Buddhism:
- The highest ideal is to become a bodhisattva.
- This form reinterprets the Buddha's traditional teachings in new ways.
Characteristics of early Buddhism (Theravada):
- The highest ideal is to attain nirvana.
- This form highlights the importance of living life according to the Eightfold Path.