Significance of Great Bodhisattva
Great Bodhisattva in Buddhism refers to highly enlightened beings dedicated to assisting all sentient beings in achieving liberation and enlightenment. These spiritual beings embody profound compassion and wisdom, displaying indestructible spiritual qualities and significant spiritual realizations. They make vows to attain Buddhahood not just for themselves but for the benefit of others, reflecting a deep altruistic intent. Distinguished figures in this realm, such as Avalokiteshvara and Maitreya, exemplify the commitment and resilience required on the path toward enlightenment.
Synonyms: Bodhi, Enlightened being, Awakened one, Wise one, Spiritual guide, Compassionate leader, Enlightened one, Mahasattva
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Great Bodhisattva'
Great Bodhisattva in Buddhism symbolizes highly enlightened beings committed to attaining Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings. They embody profound compassion, wisdom, and altruism, serving as guides in the spiritual journey towards enlightenment.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Advanced bodhisattvas capable of knowing an unlimited number of kalpas.[1] (2) A bodhisattva of significant attainment, meant to embody and practice the six perfections.[2] (3) Advanced practitioners on the path to Buddhahood, characterized by their deep compassion and altruistic intent to save all beings.[3] (4) Enlightened beings who have taken a vow to attain Buddhahood for the sake of all sentient beings, often exemplifying compassion and wisdom.[4] (5) Prominent figures in Buddhism who exemplify the qualities necessary for attaining great wisdom and radiance.[5]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Beings who have made a vow to attain enlightenment for the sake of all sentient beings, playing a key role in the Buddhist path.[6] (2) Individuals who have generated the resolve to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings, recognized for their significant spiritual achievements.[7] (3) Highly enlightened beings who are compassionate and strive for the enlightenment of all sentient beings.[8] (4) Highly enlightened beings dedicated to aiding others in achieving enlightenment, invoked during the early stages of practice.[9] (5) Refers to the knowledgeable and compassionate beings in Mahayana Buddhism, to whom offerings at the bodhimanda are made.[10]
From: Lotus Sutra
(1) Renowned and highly realized bodhisattvas who embody compassion and wisdom, and who play significant roles in teaching and spreading the Dharma.[11] (2) A being on the path to enlightenment who makes a vow to help others achieve liberation, exemplified in the text by Mahapratibhana.[12] (3) Illustrious beings who have made great vows to achieve enlightenment not only for themselves but also for all sentient beings, accompanying Samantabhadra on his journey.[13]
From: Vimalakirti Sutra
(1) Refers to the enlightened beings who aim to achieve Buddhahood for themselves and others, central to the Buddhist path and teachings.[14] (2) A term referring to an enlightened being who has made a vow to attain Buddhahood for the sake of helping all sentient beings, such as the figure of Vimalakirti in this sutra.[15]
From: Karandavyuha Sutra
(1) A title referring to Avalokiteshvara, emphasizing his revered status in Mahayana Buddhism.[16] (2) Refers to Avalokiteshvara, who is extolled for his virtues and powers within the Karandyavyuha Sutra.[17]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Maitreya is one of the notable bodhisattvas, recognized as a significant figure in Mahayana Buddhism.[18] (2) Enlightened beings such as Maitreya and Manjughosha, who have attained significant spiritual realization and are part of the lineage of teachings that benefit sentient beings.[19]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) Highly advanced spiritual beings who have developed deep compassion and wisdom, who aspire to help all sentient beings achieve liberation.[20] (2) A highly advanced being who has committed to achieving Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings.[21]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) Enlightened beings who have reached a stage of non-regression in their spiritual journey, discussed by Maitreya and the god Samtusita.[22] (2) Highly enlightened beings who aspire to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all living beings.[23]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) A highly enlightened being who is dedicated to attaining Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings.[24] (2) A revered spiritual being in Buddhism, representing the highest qualities of compassion and wisdom.[25] (3) Highly enlightened beings who seek the doctrine and are endowed with aspiration and reverence toward enlightenment.[26] (4) A profound spiritual presence characterized by indestructible senses such as sight, hearing, scent, and taste, reflecting the harmonious integration of enlightenment.[27]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Enlightened beings who have attained a high level of spiritual development and are liberated from the bondages of birth and death.[28] (2) A term reflecting a being committed to seeking enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings, exemplified by rngog and his disciples in their scholarly and teaching efforts.[29] (3) Refers to highly revered spiritual practitioners in Buddhism, embodying the essence of compassion and wisdom.[30]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Highly enlightened beings who vow to help all sentient beings achieve liberation and enlightenment.[31]