In the later development of Buddhism, the so called third vehicle or path that evolved after Hinayana and Mahayana is commonly known by which name?

Introduction / Context:
Buddhist tradition sometimes speaks of several vehicles or paths, meaning different approaches to Buddhist practice and philosophy. Early Buddhism is often associated with Hinayana or Theravada, while Mahayana represents a later broad stream. A further development, especially in Tibet and parts of the Himalayas, is referred to as a third vehicle. This question asks you to identify that third vehicle by name.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question refers to a third vehicle in Buddhism after Hinayana and Mahayana.
• Several Buddhist schools or terms are given as options.
• Only one term is widely recognised as a distinct vehicle.

Concept / Approach:
In many classifications, Hinayana and Mahayana are followed by Vajrayana, also known as the Thunderbolt Vehicle or Diamond Vehicle. Vajrayana incorporates esoteric practices, mantras, and rituals and is prominent in Tibetan and Himalayan Buddhism. Other terms such as Zen and Chan refer to particular schools within the Mahayana tradition rather than a separate third vehicle.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Hinayana or Theravada and Mahayana are the first two broad vehicles or paths. Step 2: Remember that Vajrayana is often described as a later esoteric development forming a third vehicle. Step 3: Recognise that Zen and Chan are meditative schools mainly within Mahayana Buddhism. Step 4: Note that Mahasanghika is the name of an early Buddhist school, not of a separate third vehicle. Step 5: Based on this, identify Vajrayana as the best match for the third vehicle.

Verification / Alternative check:
Many introductions to Buddhism list Vajrayana alongside Hinayana and Mahayana, emphasising its tantric and ritual aspects and its strong presence in Tibet. When exam questions mention a third vehicle, they almost always expect the answer Vajrayana, so this association is safe to rely on.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, Mahasanghika, denotes an early Buddhist sect and not a separate third vehicle. Option B, Zen, is a Japanese school of meditation within the Mahayana family. Option D, Theravada, corresponds closely to what is sometimes called Hinayana rather than a later third vehicle. Option E, Chan, is the Chinese term for the same meditative school as Zen and is again a Mahayana school rather than a separate vehicle.

Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes assume that any new sounding Buddhist term could be the third vehicle. Others may confuse Zen and Vajrayana because both are associated with distinct practices. To avoid such confusion, always connect Vajrayana with the idea of a third, esoteric vehicle in Buddhism.

Final Answer:
The third vehicle in Buddhism is commonly known as Vajrayana.