Mahāyāna, which means "Greater Vehicle" in Sanskrit, is one of the major branches of Buddhism. It emerged as a distinct movement around the 1st century CE and is characterized by its emphasis on compassion and the bodhisattva path. While there are many similarities between Mahāyāna and other branches of Buddhism, there are also some key differences that set it apart.

One of the main differences is the concept of the bodhisattva. In Mahāyāna, a bodhisattva is someone who has attained enlightenment but chooses to delay their own nirvana in order to help others achieve enlightenment. This is in contrast to Theravāda Buddhism, where the goal is for individuals to achieve their own enlightenment and attain nirvana. The bodhisattva path is seen as the ideal path in Mahāyāna, and practitioners strive to cultivate compassion and wisdom in order to benefit all beings.

Another key difference is the emphasis on the concept of emptiness (śūnyatā). In Mahāyāna, emptiness is seen as the ultimate nature of reality, and the realization of this emptiness is crucial for attaining enlightenment. This is in contrast to Theravāda Buddhism, where the emphasis is on the concept of not-self (anattā). While both concepts have similar meanings, the emphasis on emptiness in Mahāyāna is seen as a way to break free from attachments and delusions and attain ultimate liberation.

Mahāyāna also places a strong emphasis on the use of skillful means (upāya) in order to help others on the path to enlightenment. This can include various methods such as chanting, visualization, and rituals, which are seen as expedient means to help individuals understand and experience the teachings of Buddhism. This is in contrast to Theravāda Buddhism, which tends to focus more on the direct teachings of the Buddha without the use of elaborate rituals or practices.

Additionally, Mahāyāna places a strong emphasis on the idea of the interconnectedness of all beings. This is reflected in the concept of the "Buddha nature," which states that all beings have the potential to become enlightened. This idea is not as prominent in other branches of Buddhism, where the focus is more on individual liberation.

In summary, Mahāyāna differs from other branches of Buddhism in its emphasis on the bodhisattva path, the concept of emptiness, the use of skillful means, and the idea of interconnectedness. These differences reflect the unique approach and teachings of Mahāyāna, which ultimately aim to help all beings achieve enlightenment and alleviate suffering in the world.