What was the main difference between Hinayana and Mahayana regarding the Buddha's nature?

Hinayana viewed Buddha as a historical human teacher who attained enlightenment, while Mahayana viewed him as a transcendental god-like figure who could be worshipped for salvation.

Evolution of Buddhist Doctrine

UPSC Archival Analysis

Q: Gautama Buddha was elevated to the position of God during the period of-

Gautama Buddha was elevated to the status of a God during the reign of the Kushan Emperor Kanishka, coinciding with the emergence of Mahayana Buddhism.

Exam Year

2001

Evidence Source

Link

ID: HIS_ANC_2001_161 Ref: A.L. Basham, The Wonder That Was India