Final answer:
Mahayana Buddhism is a branch of Buddhism that is more philosophical than Theravada Buddhism. It seeks to maximize the number of people who can achieve release from the wheel of life. It had a significant impact outside of India, particularly in East Asia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mahayana Buddhism is a branch of Buddhism that originated in India and later spread throughout Asia. It is characterized by its emphasis on compassion and the belief that anyone can attain enlightenment, not just monks or nuns. It is considered to be more philosophical than Theravada Buddhism because it focuses on the teachings and concepts rather than strict adherence to religious practices.
One of the main goals of Mahayana Buddhism is to maximize the number of people who can achieve release from the cycle of rebirth and suffering, also known as the wheel of life. Mahayana Buddhism believes in the Bodhisattva ideal, which emphasizes helping others on their path to enlightenment.
Nanak is actually revered in Sikhism, not Mahayana Buddhism. Sikhism is a separate religious tradition that originated in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century.
Mahayana Buddhism began in India and later spread to other parts of Asia, including China, Japan, Korea, and Tibet. It had a significant impact outside of India, particularly in East Asia where it influenced art, philosophy, and culture.
Learn more about Mahayana Buddhism