What is Bodhisattva? Simple explanation

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Understanding the Bodhisattva: Small Acts with Great Meaning

Yesterday, a Christian friend asked me, “I’ve heard the term ‘Bodhisattva’ so many times, but I don’t really know what it means.” Since he follows Christianity, I gave him a simple explanation:

A Bodhisattva is someone who lives and acts for the benefit of others, willing to sacrifice their own interests for the greater good. A Bodhisattva is not a distant or abstract figure but can be seen in everyday acts of kindness, born from compassion, without seeking recognition or praise. Here are some relatable examples:

  • Giving up your seat on a bus: When you board a bus and see an elderly woman standing, offering your seat to her is an expression of a Bodhisattva’s spirit.
  • Picking up trash on the road: If you see a broken glass shard on the street and pick it up to prevent someone from getting hurt, this too is the act of a Bodhisattva.
  • Sharing with the hungry: When you notice someone who is hungry and share your bread with them without boasting about it, you embody the silent generosity of a Bodhisattva.

Many people tend to announce their good deeds, saying things like, “Yesterday, I gave that woman a whole loaf of bread. It was like I handed her an entire house!” But true Bodhisattvas don’t need to showcase their kindness or speak loudly about what they do.

Acting in Silence

In daily life, we often encounter situations where help is needed. Doing good deeds doesn’t require publicity or the expectation of acknowledgment. For example:

  • Quietly fixing mistakes: When you notice something wrong, correcting it discreetly without criticizing or blaming others reflects a Bodhisattva’s mindset.
  • Cleaning up willingly: At home or in a temple, if you see clutter, cleaning it up without being asked or complaining about others demonstrates selflessness.

Sometimes, we might find ourselves “monologuing” about our actions, like: “I told them to wash the dishes after eating, but they never listen. What a pain!” However, those truly practicing mindfulness keep their minds calm and their focus inward, examining themselves rather than complaining.

Calm Yet Reflective

People who follow the path of a Bodhisattva maintain inner tranquility while continually reflecting on their actions. They do good without needing recognition or gratitude. This quiet strength helps them nurture compassion and avoid letting ego interfere.

The essence of a Bodhisattva’s actions lies not in their scale or form but in their meaning and sincerity. By adopting this mindset, we can live more beautifully and purposefully every day.

Lesson by Venerable Thích Pháp Hoà

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Buddha Student
Buddha Student
I am a student of Buddhist teachings, sharing valuable insights from my journey of self-learning and exploring Buddhism. Most of the articles are compiled from the lectures of various Vietnamese monks. I hope these writings are as helpful to you as they have been to me.

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