There are many capacities in which we can benefit others. We can undertake activities to alleviate physical suffering, and we can help others to alleviate mental suffering, but ultimately these kinds of activities, even though they definitely benefit others, are common to other traditions as well. They are not unique to the Buddhist tradition.

Mahayana Buddhism does not exclude those kinds of activities that work towards the alleviation of temporary suffering, or towards the provision of temporary happiness for others. These are certainly good. However, in terms of benefitting others in a more fundamental, ultimate sense, according to Mahayana what is really advocated is achieving Buddhahood and helping others to achieve Buddhahood.

-- Khenpo Tsultrim Lodro Rinpoche