Mahāyāna, also known as the Greater Vehicle, is a branch of Buddhism that emerged around the 1st century BCE. It emphasizes compassion and the bodhisattva path, which is the path of attaining enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. In Mahāyāna, the concept of enlightenment is viewed as the ultimate goal and purpose of one's spiritual journey.

In Mahāyāna, enlightenment is known as Buddhahood, the state of complete awakening and liberation from suffering. It is seen as the highest form of realization and the ultimate potential of all beings. However, unlike other branches of Buddhism, Mahāyāna does not view enlightenment as an individual achievement. Instead, it is seen as a collective journey towards the liberation of all beings.

Mahāyāna teaches that enlightenment is not limited to a select few, but rather, it is attainable by all beings. This is because Mahāyāna believes in the concept of the "buddha-nature," the inherent potential for all beings to become enlightened. This means that every being, regardless of their current state, has the ability to awaken and reach Buddhahood.

Furthermore, Mahāyāna emphasizes the importance of compassion and the bodhisattva path in the pursuit of enlightenment. A bodhisattva is a being who has attained a high level of spiritual realization but chooses to postpone their own enlightenment to help others achieve it. In Mahāyāna, the bodhisattva path is seen as the most noble and compassionate way to attain enlightenment. By dedicating oneself to the well-being and liberation of all beings, one can cultivate the qualities of compassion, wisdom, and selflessness, which are essential for enlightenment.

Moreover, Mahāyāna also emphasizes the idea of "skillful means" in the pursuit of enlightenment. This refers to the use of various methods and teachings to guide beings towards enlightenment, based on their individual needs and capacities. Mahāyāna recognizes that each being is unique and may require different approaches to reach enlightenment. Therefore, the teachings and practices in Mahāyāna are diverse and adaptable, catering to the needs of all beings.

In conclusion, Mahāyāna views enlightenment as the ultimate goal and purpose of one's spiritual journey. It is attainable by all beings, and the bodhisattva path is seen as the most compassionate and noble way to reach it. By cultivating compassion, wisdom, and selflessness, and utilizing skillful means, one can ultimately achieve Buddhahood and contribute to the liberation of all beings.