Bodhisattva vows

Definition

Bodhisattva vows are commitments made by individuals in Mahayana Buddhism to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings. These vows emphasize altruism and the intention to help others achieve enlightenment, showcasing a deep ethical responsibility towards all forms of life. Through these vows, practitioners cultivate compassion, wisdom, and a dedication to spiritual development that prioritizes the well-being of others over personal enlightenment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The bodhisattva vows typically include pledges such as to save all beings from suffering, to cultivate wisdom and skillful means, and to strive for enlightenment until all sentient beings are liberated.
2. These vows contrast with the Theravada tradition, where the focus is primarily on individual attainment of nirvana rather than collective salvation.
3. Bodhisattvas are seen as ideal figures in Mahayana Buddhism who postpone their own entry into nirvana to assist others in achieving enlightenment.
4. Practicing the bodhisattva vows involves engaging in the six perfections (paramitas), which are generosity, ethics, patience, effort, meditation, and wisdom.
5. The concept of 'emptiness' (sunyata) is often linked with bodhisattva practice, as it encourages understanding that all phenomena are interdependent and devoid of inherent existence.

Review Questions

• How do the bodhisattva vows reflect the ethical principles of Mahayana Buddhism?
  • The bodhisattva vows embody the ethical principles of Mahayana Buddhism by prioritizing compassion and altruism over individual enlightenment. By committing to help all sentient beings achieve enlightenment, practitioners cultivate a selfless mindset that goes beyond personal desires. This approach highlights an interconnectedness where one's spiritual development is deeply tied to the well-being of others, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.
• Discuss the significance of the six perfections (paramitas) in relation to the practice of bodhisattva vows.
  • The six perfections (paramitas) are crucial in practicing bodhisattva vows as they provide a framework for ethical conduct and spiritual growth. Each perfection—generosity, ethics, patience, effort, meditation, and wisdom—guides practitioners in their journey toward becoming compassionate beings. By actively cultivating these qualities, bodhisattvas enhance their ability to assist others effectively while also progressing on their path to enlightenment. This structured approach reinforces the commitment made in the vows and deepens one’s understanding of interconnectedness.
• Evaluate how the concept of emptiness influences the understanding and application of bodhisattva vows in Mahayana Buddhism.
  • The concept of emptiness fundamentally influences both the understanding and application of bodhisattva vows by reshaping how practitioners perceive self and other. Recognizing that all phenomena are interdependent and lack inherent existence encourages bodhisattvas to act with greater compassion and wisdom. This realization diminishes ego-driven motivations, allowing for a more profound commitment to helping others. Thus, embracing emptiness enriches the practice of bodhisattva vows by fostering an environment where self-interest is transcended in favor of collective liberation.

Related terms

Mahayana Buddhism: A major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes the path of the bodhisattva, focusing on the altruistic intention to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.

Nirvana: The ultimate goal in Buddhism, representing liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and the end of suffering.

Compassion: A fundamental quality in Buddhism, especially emphasized in Mahayana teachings, reflecting an empathetic concern for the suffering of others and a commitment to alleviate it.