Correct Option (d)
Mahayana Buddhism, which emerged several centuries after the Buddha's demise, introduced significant doctrinal and practical changes compared to earlier Buddhist traditions (often contrasted with Theravada). The features listed are central to Mahayana philosophy and practice:
- Deification of the Buddha: In Mahayana, the Buddha is revered as a divine being, a savior, and an eternal cosmic principle, rather than solely a human teacher. This led to the development of a pantheon of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
- Treading the path of Bodhisattvas: A core ideal of Mahayana Buddhism is the Bodhisattva path. A Bodhisattva is an enlightened being who postpones their own nirvana to help all sentient beings achieve enlightenment out of compassion (karuna). This altruistic ideal contrasts with the Arhat ideal of Theravada, where individuals primarily seek their own liberation.
- Image worship and rituals: Mahayana Buddhism extensively incorporated image worship, elaborate rituals, ceremonies, and devotional practices. Statues and paintings of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas became central objects of veneration, facilitating devotion among followers.
Incorrect Options
Options (a), (b), and (c) are incorrect because they exclude one or more of the listed features. All three points-deification of the Buddha, the Bodhisattva ideal, and image worship with rituals-are defining characteristics of Mahayana Buddhism.