Mahāyāna, also known as the Greater Vehicle, is a branch of Buddhism that originated in India around the 1st century BCE. It is characterized by its emphasis on compassion and the bodhisattva path, which is the path towards enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.

One of the key teachings of Mahāyāna is the concept of emptiness, or shunyata. This teaches that all phenomena, including ourselves, are ultimately empty of inherent existence. This understanding helps to break down our attachment to the self and leads to the realization of interdependence and interconnectedness with all beings.

Another important teaching of Mahāyāna is the bodhisattva ideal. This is the aspiration to attain enlightenment not just for oneself, but for the benefit of all beings. It emphasizes the importance of compassion, wisdom, and skillful means in helping others on their path towards enlightenment.

The Mahāyāna also places a strong emphasis on the practice of meditation and mindfulness. This helps to cultivate a clear and calm mind, which is necessary for understanding the true nature of reality and developing compassion for all beings.

In addition, Mahāyāna teaches the concept of skillful means, or upaya. This refers to the various methods and teachings that are used to help individuals on their path towards enlightenment. These methods may vary depending on the individual's needs and level of understanding.

Another key teaching of Mahāyāna is the idea of the Three Bodies of Buddha. This refers to the three aspects of the Buddha: the Dharmakaya (truth body), Sambhogakaya (enjoyment body), and Nirmanakaya (emanation body). These bodies represent the ultimate truth, the blissful state of enlightenment, and the physical manifestation of the Buddha, respectively.

Finally, Mahāyāna also emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct, or the observance of the Five Precepts. These precepts, which include refraining from harming living beings and practicing generosity, help to cultivate a compassionate and moral way of life.

In conclusion, the key teachings of Mahāyāna Buddhism revolve around the concepts of emptiness, compassion, and the bodhisattva path. Through the cultivation of wisdom, compassion, and skillful means, practitioners of Mahāyāna strive to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.