The Way of the Bodhisattva
  • Published: 15 December 2006
  • ISBN: 9781590303887
  • Imprint: Shambhala
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 256
  • RRP: $29.99

The Way of the Bodhisattva

Formats & editions
Paperback
15 Dec 2006
Hardback
15 Feb 2009
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The classic Buddhist text and “essential guidebook” on the ideal of compassion and the methods of attaining it (Pema Chödrön, author of When Things Fall Apart)

Treasured by Buddhists of all traditions, The Way of the Bodhisattva (Bodhicharyavatara) is a guide to cultivating the mind of enlightenment, and to generating the qualities of love, compassion, generosity, and patience. This text has been studied, practiced, and expounded upon in an unbroken tradition for centuries, first in India, and later in Tibet. Presented in the form of a personal meditation in verse, it outlines the path of the Bodhisattvas—those who renounce the peace of individual enlightenment and vow to work for the liberation of all beings and to attain buddhahood for their sake. 

This version, translated from the Tibetan, is a revision by the translators of the 1997 edition. Included are a foreword by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, a new translator's preface, a thorough introduction, a note on the translation, and three appendices of commentary by the Nyingma master Kunzang Pelden.
  • Published: 15 December 2006
  • ISBN: 9781590303887
  • Imprint: Shambhala
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 256
  • RRP: $29.99
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About the author

Shantideva

Shantideva was a scholar in the eighth century from the monastic university Nalanda, one of the most celebrated centers of learning in ancient India. According to legend, Shantideva was greatly inspired by the celestial bodhisattva Manjushri, from whom he secretly received teachings and great insights. Yet as far as the other monks could tell, there was nothing special about Shantideva. In fact, he seemed to do nothing but eat and sleep. In an attempt to embarrass him, the monks forced Shantideva's hand by convincing him to publicly expound on the scriptures. To the amazement of all in attendance that day, Shantideva delivered the original and moving verses of the Bodhicharyavatara. When he reached verse thirty-four of the ninth chapter, he began to rise into the sky, until he at last disappeared. Following this, Shantideva became a great teacher.

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Praise for The Way of the Bodhisattva

"Shantideva's work is required reading for an understanding of Tibetan Buddhism, and the clarity and crispness of this new translation makes it an accessible way into the world of Tibetan Buddhism."--Publishers Weekly

"This text has proved very useful and beneficial to my mind."--His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama