It is not known whether the Buddha taught all three yanas. What is clear is a continuity of experience running through all the stages, and that they remain remarkably true to the original inspiration of the Buddha’s teaching. Without a proper grounding in Hinayana and Mahayana, it is impossible to step onto the sudden and colourful path of Vajrayana. The relationship of the three stages is depicted in a traditional metaphor. The Hinayana is the foundation of the palace of enlightenment; the Mahayana provides its walls and superstructure; the Vajrayana is its culminating and golden roof –
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