Schools

ajhayes

Is there a list anywhere of the comparisons of the major schools of Buddhism? I've been focused on the very basics of all of this, and I find that just grasping meditation and mindfulness and accepting the four noble truths and the noble eightfold path is where I'm at now.

Sorry if this sounds a bit scattered.

How important is it to follow a specific school? There is just a loose gathering of Buddhists in my area, nothing too official. Just a few people who sit together, trade books, and do that loving-kindness thing that all the cool kids are doing.

Shim

Here's one site where you can find some information. Also, a comparison between Theravada and Mahayan and good old Wikipedia.

I hope you find what you are looking for!

ajhayes

Thanks

I don't know why I didn't think of Wikipedia. Clearly my brain is not working today.

federica

You have a brain...?! Luxury!!

genkaku

@ajhayes --Just a small, personal note: "Schools" of Buddhism are a bit like having clean shirts hanging in the closet. Colors, design and so forth vary and invite your taste of the moment. This doesn't mean that the shirt you choose is any more or less serious in performing the job of 'shirt-ness.'

What you're already doing sounds good to me. Generally, I think, some emphasis will appeal to your personality and that appeal may lead you to emphasize one school or another. A little meditation, a little camaraderie, checking in on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path ... sounds fine. Don't fret too much about what color the shirt is.

Best wishes.