Which of the following statements are correct for Mahayana or Great Vehicle?
A. The Universe of the Great Vehicle contains numerous Bodhisattvas.
B. Avalokiteshvara is the divine Buddha.
C. Bodhisattva is not only a spirit of compassion but also of suffering.
D. Each being must be a lamp unto himself and work out his own salvation.
E. The idea of transference of merit is a special feature of this school.

Choose the Correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is D

The Mahayana or Great Vehicle Buddhism emphasizes the role of Bodhisattvas, compassionate beings who delay their own final enlightenment to help others. Hence, statement A is correct as the universe in Mahayana includes many Bodhisattvas. Statement B is incorrect because Avalokiteshvara is a Bodhisattva, not a divine Buddha. Statement C is correct; Bodhisattvas embody compassion and often share in the suffering of others. Statement D is more aligned with Theravada Buddhism's principle of individual salvation, not Mahayana. Statement E is correct because the transference of merit — where the good deeds of one can benefit others — is a distinctive Mahayana belief. Therefore, the correct combination is A, C, and E only.
Hence, the correct answer is (4) A, C and E only.

Information Booster:

Mahayana Buddhism is also called the "Great Vehicle" because it aims to carry all sentient beings toward enlightenment.
Bodhisattvas are central figures who postpone nirvana to help others.
Avalokiteshvara is the Bodhisattva of Compassion, very important in Mahayana but not considered a Buddha.
Theravada Buddhism stresses individual effort ("lamp unto himself") unlike Mahayana which supports collective salvation.
Transference of merit allows one person’s virtuous actions to aid others’ spiritual progress.
Mahayana texts include the Lotus Sutra, Heart Sutra, and others emphasizing compassion and universal salvation.
The idea of Bodhisattvas as compassionate helpers distinguishes Mahayana from other Buddhist schools.