Religion in Bhutan

Buddhism

What is Buddhism?

Buddhism is a practical way of life based on truth and reasons. The teachings of Buddhism are about your life, about being the person you are. There are three major types of Buddhism Practiced:

1. Mahayana Buddhism
2. Hinayana Buddhism / Theravada Buddhism
3. Vajrayana Buddhism

Mahayana Buddhism:

• It is known as bigger vehicle
• It emphasizes on universal enlightenment
• The goal is to achieve Bodhisattva hood
• The practitioners can achieve both enlightenment and Buddhahood
• Practiced in Bhutan, China, Tibet and Japan

Hinayana Buddhism

• It is known as smaller Vehicle
• It emphasizes on self-enlightenment or purification
• The goal is to achieve Arhathood 
• The practitioners can achieve only enlightenment but not Buddhahood
• Practiced in Sri Lanka , Thailand, Myanmar and Laos

Vajrayana Buddhism

Vajrayana Buddhism is an extreme form of Mahayana Buddhism. The practitioner of Vajrayana Buddhism goes into isolation to mediate and led an ascetic lifestyle. They give up all worldly desires and dedicated their whole life to attain enlightenment.

In Bhutan, People practice Mahayana Buddhism. There are four different sects / Schools of Mahayana Buddhism namely:

• Nyingmapa
• Kyajupa
• Shakyapa
• Gaylugpa

The way of practice varies from one sect to another but their ultimate goal remains the same.