Question for a Buddhist: "What are main differences between Mahayana Buddhism & Theravad Buddhism ?"

Question

What does one focus a bit more on than the other ?

Just as there are differences in different denominations within Christianity, there are some differences within the religious choices of Buddhism.

For Christians, no matter what denomination, the end result should be the same.

"For all Buddhists, the goals are always the same !"

Answer 1

The way I see it is that the two traditions are complimentary. It is not a case of EITHER OR. It is a case of a CONTINUUM. We start of with the beginning - the roots (Theravada) and then continue up the trunk into the branches, leaves and flowers ( Mahayana). So the two Traditions can benefit us quite a lot if we have an open mind. If our roots are not strong and well placed (i.e.our knowledge of the Theravadan Teachings is shallow and weak) no way we can grow upwards to benefit from the leaves and flowers. Master Chin Kung gave this example to his Mahayana audience. He told them everyone is busy building high rise buildings. They forgot to build strong foundations and straight away wanted to build the 3rd-10th floor…would those floors tumble down..for sure they will! Likewise it is the case with learning these two traditions. That is one of the reasons why, so many people are quite confused over the issue.

To really comprehend the teachings of Mahayana, one needs to get the concept of the Three Bodies of the Buddha in perspective, Dhammakaya, Sambodhakaya and Nirmanakaya. If not, then it will cause confusion. Why not do a search and see what you can find.
SADHU!SADHU!SADHU!
May you be happy and healthy.