Chapter 9 Part 4 - Bodhicitta and Bodhisattvas in the Pāli Tradition Flashcards
(501 cards)
What are the ten perfections in the Bodhisattva path?
Generosity, ethical discipline, patience, effort, concentration, wisdom, skillful means, aspiration, power, and knowledge.
Why is generosity emphasized in Bodhisattva narratives?
Because it reflects the altruistic motivation that underpins the path to Buddhahood.
Explain the significance of the bodhisattva vow.
It is a solemn commitment to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
How does patience function as a pāramī on the Bodhisattva path?
It allows the practitioner to endure hardships without anger, essential for long-term progress.
What is the role of wisdom in the Bodhisattva training?
Wisdom guides the bodhisattva to see reality clearly and act with compassion.
List key attributes of a Bodhisattva as illustrated in early birth stories.
Selflessness, courage, steadfastness, generosity, and unwavering compassion.
Give an example of how a Bodhisattva cultivates effort.
By persisting in virtuous actions even when faced with repeated failure or suffering.
Why is the Bodhisattva path considered superior in some traditions?
Because it seeks the liberation of all beings, not just oneself.
How does ethical conduct support the Bodhisattva path?
It provides a foundation of trust and non-harming upon which compassion can flourish.
In what way is aspiration critical to the Bodhisattva’s progress?
Aspiration provides long-term vision and energizes the vow to benefit all beings.
What does this tell us about Bodhisattva motivation (in)?
Aspiration provides long-term vision and energizes the vow to benefit all beings.
Give a practical reason this quality is emphasized (list)?
Selflessness, courage, steadfastness, generosity, and unwavering compassion.
What makes this essential on the Bodhisattva path (in)?
Aspiration provides long-term vision and energizes the vow to benefit all beings.
What does this tell us about Bodhisattva motivation (how)?
It provides a foundation of trust and non-harming upon which compassion can flourish.
Give a practical reason this quality is emphasized (list)?
Selflessness, courage, steadfastness, generosity, and unwavering compassion.
Give a practical reason this quality is emphasized (what)?
Wisdom guides the bodhisattva to see reality clearly and act with compassion.
How is this perfection cultivated in practice (explain)?
It is a solemn commitment to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
How is this perfection cultivated in practice (in)?
Aspiration provides long-term vision and energizes the vow to benefit all beings.
In what way does this support the aspiration to Buddhahood (why)?
Because it seeks the liberation of all beings, not just oneself.
What makes this essential on the Bodhisattva path (explain)?
It is a solemn commitment to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
Give a practical reason this quality is emphasized (in)?
Aspiration provides long-term vision and energizes the vow to benefit all beings.
What does this tell us about Bodhisattva motivation (why)?
Because it reflects the altruistic motivation that underpins the path to Buddhahood.
In what way does this support the aspiration to Buddhahood (what)?
Wisdom guides the bodhisattva to see reality clearly and act with compassion.