What was the major difference between the Theravada tradition and the Mahayana tradition?

This is a key difference between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhists. Whereas Theravada Buddhists strive to become Arhats and gain freedom from the cycle of samsara, Mahayana Buddhists may choose to stay in the cycle of samsara out of compassion for others.

Explanation:

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In Mahayana Buddhism Maitreya plus non-historical figures. Mahayana Buddhism suggests Boddhisatva's delay their realisation to stay in Samsara and help other struggling humans. Theravada suggests Bodhisattvas seek enlightenment first before they can help others stuck in Samsara.

Explanation:

While Theravada Buddhists see the Mahayana as having strayed into some heterodox teachings from scriptures not derived from the original speech of the Buddha, and Mahayana Buddhist see themselves as having both the teachings of the earthly Buddha and the deeper and fuller teachings which come from the heavenly Buddhas

i would say your answer would be the second option.

hope this !

its c not d   tell me if that´s correct