Theravada Buddhism is older of the two main divisions of Buddhism and referred to as the ‘traditions of the elders’. Many Theravada Buddhists follow the teachings of the Buddha quite literally.

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Theravada Buddhists strive to be arhats. Arhats are perfected people who have gained true insight into the nature of reality. This means they have followed the Noble Eightfold Path to ‘blow out’ the three fires of greed, hatred and ignorance and have become enlightened.

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In Buddhism, enlightenment leads to nibbana (or nirvana), which means freedom from the cycle of rebirth (samsara). Consequently, they will no longer be reborn through samsara.

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By contrast Mahayana Buddhists believe they can achieve enlightenment through following the teachings of the Buddha. The goal of a Mahayana Buddhist may be to become a Bodhisattva and this is achieved through the Six Perfections. Compassion is very important in Mahayana Buddhism. Therefore, Bodhisattvas choose to stay in the cycle of samsara to help others to achieve enlightenment as well as themselves.

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So whilst Theravada Buddhists strive to become Arhats, to be free from the cycle of samsara, Mahayana Buddhists may choose to stay in the cycle of samsara out of compassion for others.

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A practical and convenient way to really understand the heart of Theravata Buddhism is to spend a day talking to and shadowing a monk. You will observe the monks as they go about their daily practice including the giving of prayers and seeking of alms.