Final answer:
The Buddhist scriptures are traditionally divided into two main groups: Theravada and Mahayana. Theravada Buddhism focuses on the original teachings of the Buddha and the Pali Canon, whereas Mahayana Buddhism includes a vast range of sutras with broader interpretations of Buddha's teachings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Traditionally, the Buddhist scriptures are divided into two main groups known as the Theravada and Mahayana. Theravada Buddhism, also known as the "Teaching of the Elders," is most prevalent in Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka, and it strives to adhere closely to the original teachings of the Buddha, emphasizing the importance of meditation and concentration for enlightenment. On the other hand, Mahayana Buddhism, which developed later, offers a greater variety of practices and interpretations and is widespread in East Asia.
The division between Theravada and Mahayana manifests in their approach to spiritual practice, the role of the laity, and their respective literature. Theravada Buddhism focuses on the Pali Canon as its primary scripture, which includes the teachings and sayings of the Buddha, monastic rules, and philosophical texts. Mahayana Buddhism, meanwhile, has a broader canon that includes the Pali texts but also incorporates a vast range of other sutras, such as the Lotus Sutra and the Heart Sutra, which introduce new doctrines and expand the scope of Buddha's teachings to accommodate an array of practices and levels of understanding.