Bodhisattvas

Bodhisattvas

A Bodhisattva is a being who has attained a high level of spiritual development and is on the path to Buddhahood, but who has postponed their own final enlightenment in order to help all sentient beings achieve liberation from samsara, the cycle of birth and death. The concept of the Bodhisattva is central to Mahayana Buddhism, which emphasizes the altruistic intention to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.

Etymology

The term "Bodhisattva" is derived from the Sanskrit words "bodhi," meaning "awakening" or "enlightenment," and "sattva," meaning "being." Thus, a Bodhisattva is literally an "enlightenment being."

Historical Development

The idea of the Bodhisattva has its roots in early Buddhist texts, but it became more fully developed in the Mahayana tradition. In early Buddhism, the term was used to refer to the historical Gautama Buddha in his previous lives, as he was progressing towards Buddhahood. In Mahayana Buddhism, however, the Bodhisattva ideal became a universal path open to all practitioners.

The Bodhisattva Vow

Central to the Bodhisattva path is the Bodhisattva vow, which is a commitment to attain enlightenment for the sake of all sentient beings. This vow is often expressed in the following way:

I vow to liberate all beings without number. I vow to uproot endless blind passions. I vow to penetrate dharma gates beyond measure. I vow to attain the way of the Buddha.

Characteristics of a Bodhisattva

Bodhisattvas are characterized by their compassion, wisdom, and skillful means. They practice the Six Perfections (paramitas), which are:

1. Generosity (dana)
2. Ethical conduct (sila)
3. Patience (ksanti)
4. Diligence (virya)
5. Meditation (dhyana)
6. Wisdom (prajna)

Famous Bodhisattvas

Several Bodhisattvas are particularly revered in Mahayana Buddhism, including:

• Avalokiteshvara: The Bodhisattva of Compassion, often depicted with multiple arms and heads to symbolize his ability to help many beings simultaneously.
• Manjushri: The Bodhisattva of Wisdom, often depicted wielding a sword that cuts through ignorance.
• Ksitigarbha: The Bodhisattva who vows to help beings in the hell realms.
• Maitreya: The future Buddha, currently a Bodhisattva, who will appear on Earth in the future.

Bodhisattva Practices

Practitioners on the Bodhisattva path engage in various practices to cultivate the qualities necessary for enlightenment. These include:

• Meditation and mindfulness practices to develop concentration and insight.
• Engaging in acts of compassion and service to others.
• Studying and reflecting on the Dharma to deepen understanding.

Bodhisattvas in Different Traditions

While the Bodhisattva ideal is most prominent in Mahayana Buddhism, it is also present in Vajrayana and Theravada traditions, though with different emphases and interpretations.

Conclusion

The Bodhisattva path represents a profound commitment to the welfare of all beings and embodies the highest ideals of compassion and wisdom in Buddhism. By following this path, practitioners aspire not only to achieve personal enlightenment but to assist all sentient beings in their journey towards liberation.

References

• Paul Williams, "Mahayana Buddhism: The Doctrinal Foundations."
• Thich Nhat Hanh, "The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching."