The Enlightened Debate: Can Self-Centered Motives Lead to True Awakening?

Hinayana Buddhists seek enlightenment for themselves, whereas Mahayana Buddhists seek enlightenment in order to benefit others. Which approach is superior?

People pursue religious or spiritual paths for a variety of reasons, but two reasons tend to stand out.

1. People see for themselves the positive results that practitioners or believers display and desire those advantages for themselves. Perhaps they encounter a Buddhist monk who exudes peace and love, or perhaps they interact with a devout Christian who lives by the teachings of Christ. When one sees the benefits first-hand, they can more easily be inspired.
2. People read Scriptures or spiritual texts, and by the emotional power of the words, they become inspired to learn more about that religion or practice. I write in this forum with hope that it will inspire someone to pursue a spiritual path.

After the initial inspiration, people may embark on a spiritual path or accept baptism into a religion. They form the desire to become enlightened or accept the Holy Spirit into their heart. This process usually proceeds in four steps.

1. After a new practitioner or believer…