Bodhisattva

Definition

A bodhisattva is an enlightened being in Mahayana Buddhism who has made a vow to attain Buddhahood for the sake of all sentient beings. Unlike an arhat, who seeks personal enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of rebirth, a bodhisattva postpones their own complete enlightenment to help others achieve it. This selfless commitment significantly influences various aspects of East Asian art and religious practices, reflecting ideals of compassion and altruism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of the bodhisattva emerged prominently in Mahayana Buddhism around the 1st century CE, emphasizing compassion as a central virtue.
2. Bodhisattvas are often depicted in East Asian art with specific iconography, such as multiple arms or unique attributes that symbolize their qualities and abilities.
3. One of the most revered bodhisattvas is Avalokiteshvara, who is known as Guanyin in Chinese tradition and is associated with mercy and compassion.
4. In many East Asian Buddhist temples, bodhisattvas are central figures in sculpture and paintings, serving as inspirations for practitioners in their spiritual journeys.
5. The bodhisattva ideal encourages selflessness and altruism, influencing not just religious practices but also cultural values throughout East Asia.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of a bodhisattva differ from that of an arhat within Buddhist traditions?
  • The main difference between a bodhisattva and an arhat lies in their motivations and goals. An arhat seeks personal enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of rebirth, focusing on their own spiritual journey. In contrast, a bodhisattva chooses to remain in the cycle of rebirth to assist others in achieving enlightenment. This distinction reflects the broader philosophical differences within Buddhism, particularly between Theravada and Mahayana traditions.
• Discuss how bodhisattvas are represented in East Asian art and what these representations signify.
  • In East Asian art, bodhisattvas are often portrayed with distinctive features such as multiple arms or seated in meditative poses, symbolizing their ability to help numerous beings simultaneously. These artistic representations emphasize the virtues of compassion and selflessness that define the bodhisattva ideal. They serve not only as objects of veneration but also as visual reminders for practitioners to embody these qualities in their own lives.
• Evaluate the influence of the bodhisattva ideal on contemporary social values in East Asia, particularly concerning altruism and community service.
  • The bodhisattva ideal has significantly influenced contemporary social values in East Asia by promoting altruism and a sense of responsibility toward others. This emphasis on compassion manifests in various social movements and community service initiatives aimed at improving the lives of those in need. As individuals embrace the principles of selflessness and dedication to others' well-being, the legacy of the bodhisattva continues to shape societal norms, fostering a culture that values collective welfare over individual gain.

Related terms

Mahayana Buddhism: A major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes the role of bodhisattvas and the pursuit of enlightenment not only for oneself but also for the benefit of all beings.

Avalokiteshvara: A prominent bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism known for embodying compassion and mercy, often depicted with multiple arms to aid many beings at once.

Paramitas: The six perfections or virtues that bodhisattvas practice to develop their character and assist others on the path to enlightenment.