The vast majority of Buddhists in historical and contemporary times have been followers of Mahāyāna Buddhism.
Fred de Noyelle / Godong/Stone via Getty Images
The Mahāyāna branch of Buddhism likely emerged around the first centuries A.D. and was most readily carried through the Silk Road and maritime trade routes.
Boddhisatva Avalokiteśvara, considered to be a compassionate protector, is believed to regularly visit Earth.
taikrixel/ via iStock Getty Images Plus
In China, many Buddhists hope for birth in a buddha-land so they can complete their path under a buddha’s direct supervision.
Thai monks pray during a cleansing ceremony and memorial service for Saman Gunan, the Thai SEAL diver who died while trying to rescue the boys trapped in the cave.
AP Photo/Vincent Thian
In Theravada Buddhism, ordaining to be a monk and donating the merit thus gained is one of the greatest honors that a person can give to another - in this case to the Navy SEAL officer, who died.