types of Buddhism
The differences in the three major types of Buddhism revolve on their belief in religious teachings. For instance, Theravada Buddhism uses Pali-Canon teachings, whereas Mahayana uses sutras, which is the most recent teaching on Buddha. Moreover, they vary in terms of their teachings on liberation. The Vajrayana focuses on the use of objects and visualization to make people enlightened to liberate them while the Mahayana focuses on liberating all people in the society rather than individual liberation. Theravada, on the other side, believes in the liberation through the cultivation of the noble eightfold path.
Based on the differences between the three types of Buddhism, conflict amongst them arises because of their diverse beliefs on religion. The varying beliefs of the three sects of Buddhism typically result in a spiritual conflict which originates from the argument on the side, which represents Buddha’s teachings more accurately. Every group believes in their teachings about Buddha, and they perceive others who do not hold to their teachings as outcasts. Similarly, due to their strong belief in Buddhism, which associates Buddha as a superior being, the three groups of Buddhism are most likely to engage in conflict with other religious groups. They are more likely to criticize the belief of other groups like Christians and the Muslims, and this would resultantly amount to religious conflict.
In summary, the cultural differences that lead to variance in Buddhist practices from various countries involve their different belief on teachings on Buddha. Similarly, I would be willing to risk punishment for my religious belief because of the assurance of eternity after the end of life.