Bodhicharyavatara, The Way of the Bodhisattva

I read the Way of the Bodhisattva as a new student 30 years ago and loved it. It seemed unachievably noble, but still beautiful. I could not understand the Wisdom chapter at all. I still don’t!

Bodhicharyavatara: Guide to the Bodhisattva Path

Have you ever heard of a Bodhisattva? Imagine a superhero in training for enlightenment, but instead of fighting villains, they use compassion and wisdom to liberate all beings from suffering. Pretty cool, right? Enter Shantideva, a renowned Buddhist scholar who wrote a foundational Mahayana Buddhist text: “A Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life” (also known as the Bodhicharyavatara).

Shantideva: A Man Overshadowed by His Work

While details about Shantideva’s life (thought to be 8th-9th century CE, possibly India) are scarce, his writings shine brightly. Forget about getting lost in his breakfast preferences; let’s focus on the transformative power of his teachings in the Bodhicharyavatara.

The way of the Bodhisattva

The Bodhicharyavatara is more than just an old book. It’s a cornerstone of Mahayana Buddhism, which emphasizes achieving enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. Think of it as the ultimate guide to becoming a Bodhisattva, wielding kindness and wisdom to alleviate suffering.

This comprehensive manual, structured into nine chapters, meticulously maps out the Bodhisattva path. Each chapter tackles a different aspect of this journey, offering practical advice on cultivating generosity, patience, and unwavering determination to help others. It’s like a roadmap to enlightenment, complete with detours around negativity and scenic overlooks for reflection.

Bodhicharyavatara: Guide for the Compassionate

Shantideva’s teachings aren’t philosophical musings; they’re practical tools for anyone who wants to walk the Bodhisattva path. Here are some key takeaways:

• From Me to We: Shantideva cuts to the chase – our natural tendency towards self-centeredness. He urges us to cultivate genuine compassion for all beings, recognizing our interconnectedness. Imagine everyone as part of a vast web, where your well-being is linked to theirs.
• Turning Lemons into Lemonade (or Enlightenment): Life throws curveballs, but what if we could see challenges as opportunities for growth? Shantideva teaches us to transform negativity into fuel for our spiritual journey. A bout of anger becomes a chance to practice patience, and frustration with others can be a springboard for developing deeper understanding.
• The Art of Patience: The path to enlightenment will be long and arduous. Shantideva emphasizes the importance of patience, cultivating tolerance and perseverance. True progress takes time and unwavering commitment.
• The Ultimate Gift Exchange: Shantideva introduces a powerful concept called “tonglen,” often translated as “taking and giving.” Instead of clinging to happiness for ourselves, we cultivate the willingness to exchange our own well-being for the suffering of others. Imagine taking on their pain and radiating compassion in its place. It’s a radical act of generosity that embodies the true essence of the Bodhisattva path.

Way of the Bodhisattva’s legacy

Shantideva’s Bodhicharyavatara isn’t just a book; it’s a timeless melody that has resonated with Buddhist practitioners for centuries. His teachings transcend geographical and cultural boundaries, becoming a foundational text studied across various Mahayana traditions. It’s a beacon of wisdom, guiding countless souls on the path towards enlightenment for the benefit of all.

Shantideva’s enduring influence lies in his ability to make profound concepts practical. He doesn’t just talk about compassion; he gives us tools to cultivate it in our daily lives. By encouraging us to overcome self-centeredness, transform challenges into opportunities, and practice radical generosity, he inspires us to prioritize the well-being of others.

Explore the Bodhisattva Path!

Shantideva’s message is a powerful antidote to our self-serving tendencies. He reminds us that true happiness lies in alleviating the suffering of others. It’s a call to action, an invitation to become active participants in creating a more compassionate world.

Feeling curious? Consider exploring “A Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life” or other Mahayana Buddhist texts. You might just discover a treasure trove of wisdom that can transform your perspective and inspire you to become a Bodhisattva in the making.