Two major extant branches of Buddhism are generally recognized by scholars: Theravada ("The School of the Elders") and Mahayana ("The Great Vehicle"). Vajrayana, a body of teachings attributed to Indian siddhas, may be viewed as a third branch or merely a part of Mahayana. Theravada has a widespread following in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. Mahayana which includes the traditions of Pure Land, Zen, Nichiren Buddhism, Shingon, and Tiantai (Tendai) is found throughout East Asia. Tibetan Buddhism, which preserves the Vajrayana teachings of eighth century India, is practiced in regions surrounding the Himalayas, Mongolia and Kalmykia. Buddhists number between an estimated 488 million[web 1] and 535 million, making it one of the world's major religions. COUNT 10
QSN1 What are the two major branches of Buddhism? ANS1 Theravada ("The School of the Elders") and Mahayana ("The Great Vehicle") QSN2 What is sometimes viewed as the third branch of Buddhism? ANS2 Vajrayana QSN3 Where does Theravada have the largest following? ANS3 Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia QSN4 Mahayana includes which practices of Buddhism? ANS4 Pure Land, Zen, Nichiren Buddhism, Shingon, and Tiantai (Tendai) QSN5 What is the estimated number of Buddhists in the world? ANS5 488 million[web 1] and 535 million QSN6 Which branch practices the teachings of Zen? ANS6 Mahayana QSN7 What minor branch is sometimes attributed to Mahayana? ANS7 Vajrayana QSN8 What kind of teachings does Tibetan Buddhism preserve? ANS8 Vajrayana QSN9 Vajrayana is attributed to who? ANS9 Indian siddhas QSN10 Theravada means what? ANS10 The School of the Elders