Significance of Little Vehicle
Little Vehicle, also known as Hinayana, represents an early, less expansive form of Buddhism focused on individual enlightenment. It is associated with Theravada Buddhism, emphasized in regions such as South Asia, where various schools of thought, notably the Sammatiya school, are studied by many priests. This term contrasts with Mahayana Buddhism, which is broader in scope. Little Vehicle is thus a significant classification within Buddhist practice, highlighting teachings that adhere closely to the original discourses of the Buddha.
In Dutch: Klein voertuig
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Little Vehicle'
Little Vehicle, or Hinayana, in Buddhism signifies Theravada Buddhism, focusing on individual enlightenment. It represents the early, less expansive teachings of Buddha, contrasting with Mahayana's broader approach to spiritual practice.
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) Also known as Hinayana, it refers to the early teaching of Buddha and his followers as a less expansive form of Buddhism.[1]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) A reference to Theravada Buddhism, which emphasizes personal enlightenment and is distinct from Mahayana Buddhism.[2]
The concept of Little Vehicle in local and regional sources
Little Vehicle refers to the Theravada school of Buddhism, emphasized by its focus on individual enlightenment and the teachings studied by numerous priests across various regions, including sangharamas and specific sects like Sammatiya and Sarvastivada.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) A doctrine studied by followers in some sangharamas, contrasting with the larger Buddhist traditions.[3] (2) Denotes a Buddhist school, specifically the Sammatiya, followed by the priests in the region.[4] (3) Refers to Theravada Buddhism, another significant school of Buddhist practice studied by the priests.[5] (4) A term for Theravada Buddhism, the other main branch of Buddhism.[6] (5) A common term for a branch of Buddhism that emphasizes individual enlightenment.[7]
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) A term referring to the Buddhist tradition that emphasizes individual enlightenment.[8] (2) A reference to one of the Buddhist schools that the ramas in Ki-jou-i belong to.[9] (3) A classification of Buddhist practitioners focused on individual enlightenment, represented by a significant number of priests in the regions visited.[10] (4) A school of Buddhist belief that is practiced by approximately 4000 priests in the described country.[11] (5) Refers to a school of Buddhism represented by a temple additionally located in Pataliputra.[12]