Buddhist Denominations Explained | Theravada vs Mahayana

The video explores the development of Buddhist denominations, starting with the Vedic religion and Brahmanism, leading to the Shramana movement. It details the origins of Buddhism, its teachings, and the spread of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism. The video compares the Polycanon and Chinese Canon, and discusses the differences between Theravada and Mahayana beliefs. It concludes with an overview of Tibetan Buddhism and Jainism.

What was the primary reason for the rise of the Shramana movement?

• A need for more complex rituals

• Influence from foreign invaders

• A desire for more material wealth

• Dissatisfaction with Brahmin authority and Vedic teachings

Who is considered the founder of Buddhism?

• Siddhartha Gautama

• Confucius

• Mahavira

• Ashoka

What are the core teachings of Buddhism known as?

• The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path

• The Ten Commandments

• The Seven Sacraments

• The Five Pillars

Which emperor played a significant role in spreading Buddhism?

• Akbar

• Alexander the Great

• Ashoka

• Chandragupta Maurya

What is the oldest complete set of Buddhist scriptures called?

• The Torah

• The Polycanon

• The Quran

• The Bible

What distinguishes Mahayana Buddhism from Theravada Buddhism?

• Theravada Buddhism has more deities

• Mahayana Buddhism focuses on the Bodhisattva Path

• Mahayana Buddhism is more strict

• Theravada Buddhism originated in China

Which language is the Chinese Canon primarily written in?

• Sanskrit

• Latin

• Pali

• Classical Chinese

What is a unique feature of Tibetan Buddhism?

• Strict adherence to the Vedas

• Rejection of all rituals

• Incorporation of esoteric practices like mandalas

• Focus on meditation only

Who is the spiritual leader of the largest sect of Tibetan Buddhism?

• The Pope

• The Dalai Lama

• The Archbishop of Canterbury

• The Patriarch of Constantinople

What is a key principle of Jainism?

• Polytheism

• Monotheism

• Non-violence and vegetarianism

• Animal sacrifice