Traditional Buddhism, Mahayana, and Theravada In Hinduism there are six aspects of religion authority, ritual, speculation, tradition, grace and mystery. Explain why the Buddha rejects each of the six aspects of religion. Over time the Buddhist tradition branched off into separate schools of Buddhism: the Mahayana (the Big Vehicle) and the Theravada (the Little Vehicle). The Mahayana and Theravada schools vary in their emphasis of spiritual practice. Explain at least six ways how the Mahayana and Theravada schools differ schematically that divide the two great branches of Buddhism.