大乘佛教, or Mahayana Buddhism, is one of the two main branches of Buddhism, alongside Theravada. It emphasizes the path of the Bodhisattva, a person who seeks enlightenment not only for themselves but also for all sentient beings. This approach encourages compassion and altruism, aiming to help others achieve spiritual liberation. Mahayana Buddhism is characterized by its diverse teachings and practices, which include various schools such as Zen and Pure Land. It also introduces concepts like emptiness and Buddha-nature, which highlight the interconnectedness of all life and the potential for everyone to attain Buddhahood.