The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
by Ven. Mingun Sayadaw | 1990 | 1,044,401 words
This page describes Great Compassion and skill in ways and means contained within the book called the Great Chronicle of Buddhas (maha-buddha-vamsa), a large compilation of stories revolving around the Buddhas and Buddhist disciples. This page is part of the series known as on Miscellany. This great chronicle of Buddhas was compiled by Ven. Mingun Sayadaw who had a thorough understanding of the thousands and thousands of Buddhist teachings (suttas).
Part 6b - Great Compassion and skill in ways and means
[Summary: Great Compassion and Skilfulness (Mahākaruṇā and Upāya-kosalla Ñāṇa)]
Like the great meritorious abhinīhāra, mahākaruṇā and upāya-kosalla ñāṇa form basic conditions for all the Perfections. (These two conditions have been dealt with above). Through them, Bodhisattas are able to promote constantly the welfare and happiness of other beings, without concern for their own interest. Although performing the duties of Bodhisattas which are beyond the capability of ordinary men, they do not consider them too wearisome.
Because mahākaruṇā and upāya-kosalla ñāṇa exist in them, welfare and happiness accrue to those who develop confidence in them, who show respect to them, who have occasion to see Bodhisatta or recollect their virtues.
To explain further: Of Compassion and Wisdom, it is through Wisdom that a Bodhisatta attains Omniscience; it is through Compassion that he performs the duties of a Buddha. Through Wisdom, he is able to across the ocean of saṃsāra. Through Compassion, he goes to the rescue of beings. Through Wisdom, he understands thoroughly the suffering of others. Through Compassion, he endeavours to alleviate their suffering. Through Wisdom he becomes wearied of suffering. Through Compassion, he accepts the same disgusting suffering as happiness in order to work for the liberation of beings. Through Wisdom, he aspires after Nibbāna. Through Compassion, he continues to go round and round in saṃsāra. Thus, Compassion and Wisdom are beneficial in many ways. These two not only form the foundation of the pāramīs, they are the basic condition of the Aspiration after Buddhahood as well.