Explain the beliefs of Buddhists towards the Buddha
             There are two main types of Buddhists, Theravada Buddhists, which means way of the elders and Mahayana Buddhists, which means Greater Vehicle. These two distinctive types of Buddhists emerged following the death of the Buddha. After his death the Buddha's teachings were continued through oral tradition, as very few people could write the sacred language of Sanskrit at the time. Councils of the Buddha's following would recite his teachings together and inevitably disagreements arose about the actual teachings and their meanings. As a result a division occurred. These two groups although similar in some ways are quite different in others, especially concerning the Buddha.
             Theravada Buddhists believe the Buddha to be an extraordinary person. They believe his achievement to enlightenment to be a great conquest which enthuses and inspires all on the path to Nirvana. However although they do not under any circumstances treat him or consider him to be a God or any sort of higher or supreme being, they do think of him as a one off. They understand that becoming enlightened takes years, lifetimes, of dedication, and it is a very rare goal to be succeeded, and as a result becoming enlightened is not the one goal that Theravada Buddhists strive for. Instead most Theravada Buddhists try and purify their karma, and gain merits in a hope of enhancing their prospects of gaining enlightenment in future lifetimes.
             It is because of what they believe to be such an immense achievement that he is celebrated so vastly in iconography. These icons are accordingly shown an unconditional amount of respect; they are treated with care and reverence, many even bowing before his statues and make offerings in front of them. However it is important it is made clear that the Buddha is not actually worshipped. The people do not pray to him, ask for guidance or help.
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