The correct option is 2 only
Explanation
Mahayana Buddhism, or the "Great Vehicle," emerged as a distinct sect around the 1st century AD/CE. It marked a significant theological departure from the earlier Theravada or Hinayana traditions, shifting focus from individual salvation (Arhatship) to universal salvation through the grace of Bodhisattvas and the worship of the Buddha as a deity.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: Mahayana Buddhism introduced the concept of the Bodhisattva. Unlike the earlier tradition where individuals strove for their own liberation, a Bodhisattva is a compassionate being who accumulates merit but delays their own Nirvana to help others achieve salvation. This introduced the idea of a "saviour" who could ensure the spiritual well-being of others.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Early Buddhism (often termed Hinayana) worshipped the Buddha through symbols such as the Bodhi tree, footprints, or the empty seat. In contrast, Mahayana Buddhism initiated and popularized the worship of images and statues of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas. This shift led to the development of major schools of art, such as the Gandhara and Mathura schools, which specialized in sculpting Buddha images.
Key Takeaway:
The primary distinctions of Mahayana Buddhism are the worship of Buddha idols (anthropomorphic representation) and the doctrine of the Bodhisattva (universal salvation), contrasting with the symbolic worship and individual focus of the earlier Hinayana sect.