Basic vehicle

Basic Vehicle (Skt. Hīnayāna; Wyl. theg dman) - literally the 'Lesser Vehicle', but perhaps more accurately understood as 'Vehicle of Lesser Result'. What principally distinguishes followers of the Hinayana from those of the Great Vehicle (Skt. Mahayana; Wyl. theg chen) is their motivation. They aspire for the personal liberation of nirvana, and lack the courage to pursue the greater fruition of the Mahayana - this being the enlightenment of all sentient beings.

It comprises both the Shravakayana (Skt.) or vehicle of shravakas and the Pratyekabuddhayana (Skt.) or vehicle of pratyekabuddhas.

Alternative translations

• Fundamental Vehicle
• Individual Vehicle