Buddhas vs bodhisattvas vs arhats vs devas vs brahmas What are differences between these entities? I understand they all are entities that they posses some abilities that normal humans don't have. Are there any other similar entities that might be easily confused?
Buddha is a completely self-enlightened one (without help from another Buddha, direct or indirect).
Bodhisattva (in Theravada) is a being on its way to enlightenment.
Bodhisattva (in Mahayana) is an awakened being who vowed to indefinitely stick in Samsara for the sake of others.
Arhat (in Theravada) is a completely enlightened person (thanks to a Buddha's help).
Arhat (in Mahayana) is person who has attained Peace (of enlightenment) for him or herself, but not willing to give it up for the sake of others.
Deva is a non-human being invisible to the human eye.