Chapter 9 Part 3 - Bodhicitta and Bodhisattvas in the Pāli Tradition Flashcards
(501 cards)
What inspired the bodhisattva path in the story of Sumedha and Dīpaṅkara Buddha?
Sumedha’s renunciation and aspiration upon meeting Dīpaṅkara Buddha initiated his long path toward Buddhahood.
Why is the bodhisattva vow considered rare in the Pāli canon?
Because few beings have the vast resolve and wisdom to dedicate countless lifetimes to full Buddhahood.
What is the significance of ‘abhinīhāra’ in the Theravāda tradition?
‘Abhinīhāra’ refers to the unwavering aspiration or resolve to achieve perfect Buddhahood.
Why are the ten pāramīs central to the bodhisattva path in Theravāda?
They are perfections of virtue that a bodhisattva must gradually complete to become a Buddha.
What distinguishes a bodhisattva from an arahant in the Theravāda model?
A bodhisattva seeks complete awakening for the benefit of all beings, while an arahant seeks personal liberation.
How does Dhammapāla defend the bodhisattva ideal?
By affirming its scriptural basis and presenting it as a noble, though arduous, path endorsed by tradition.
Why is the bodhisattva ideal seen as deeply altruistic in Theravāda?
Because it involves enduring suffering for countless lifetimes to bring ultimate benefit to others.
What role do vows play in the Theravāda bodhisattva career?
Vows guide moral conduct and solidify the long-term aim of Buddhahood.
How are pāramīs cultivated across lifetimes in Theravāda texts?
Through repeated acts of generosity, patience, effort, and wisdom in various lives.
Why is the aspiration for full Buddhahood praised despite its difficulty?
Because it embodies the highest ideal of compassion and wisdom.
What inspired the bodhisattva path in the story of Sumedha and Dīpaṅkara Buddha?
Sumedha’s renunciation and aspiration upon meeting Dīpaṅkara Buddha initiated his long path toward Buddhahood. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
For what reason is the bodhisattva vow considered rare in the Pāli canon?
Because few beings have the vast resolve and wisdom to dedicate countless lifetimes to full Buddhahood. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
What is the significance of ‘abhinīhāra’ in the Theravāda tradition?
‘Abhinīhāra’ refers to the unwavering aspiration or resolve to achieve perfect Buddhahood. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
For what reason are the ten pāramīs central to the bodhisattva path in Theravāda?
They are perfections of virtue that a bodhisattva must gradually complete to become a Buddha. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
What distinguishes a bodhisattva from an arahant in the Theravāda model?
A bodhisattva seeks complete awakening for the benefit of all beings, while an arahant seeks personal liberation. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
In what way does Dhammapāla defend the bodhisattva ideal?
By affirming its scriptural basis and presenting it as a noble, though arduous, path endorsed by tradition. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
For what reason is the bodhisattva ideal seen as deeply altruistic in Theravāda?
Because it involves enduring suffering for countless lifetimes to bring ultimate benefit to others. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
What role do vows play in the Theravāda bodhisattva career?
Vows guide moral conduct and solidify the long-term aim of Buddhahood. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
In what way are pāramīs cultivated across lifetimes in Theravāda texts?
Through repeated acts of generosity, patience, effort, and wisdom in various lives. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
For what reason is the aspiration for full Buddhahood praised despite its difficulty?
Because it embodies the highest ideal of compassion and wisdom. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
What inspired the bodhisattva path in the story of Sumedha and Dīpaṅkara Buddha?
Sumedha’s renunciation and aspiration upon meeting Dīpaṅkara Buddha initiated his long path toward Buddhahood. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
For what reason is the bodhisattva vow considered rare in the Pāli canon?
Because few beings have the vast resolve and wisdom to dedicate countless lifetimes to full Buddhahood. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.
What is the significance of ‘abhinīhāra’ in the Theravāda tradition?
‘Abhinīhāra’ refers to the unwavering aspiration or resolve to achieve perfect Buddhahood. This defines the path of a true bodhisattva in the Pāli tradition.