Overview

There are different divisions within Buddhism itself: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. Each has their own beliefs and way of life, so it is harder to define what exactly Buddhism is without going in depth for each of them.

Theravada

Theravadans believe that there are Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Middle Path that help lead to nirvana. They rely on themselves to get to enlightenment, not relying on the gods.

Mahayana

Mahayana Buddhism teaches that the release from the wheel of life is brought to pass through divinity. Some seek nirvana through meditation, some through helping beings, and some simply by thinking the name of Buddha. Bodhisattvas are "savior beings" who help others reach their own enlightenment.

Vajrayana

Tibet has its own type of Buddhism, which brings in pieces of older Tibetan religions, parts from scriptures of Theravadans, some of the divinities of Mahayana, and elements from the Vajrayana scriptures.