Significance of Great Bodhisattva
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) Great bodhisattvas emit immense rays everywhere, from which appear innumerable emanation bodies that penetrate the three bad destinies.[1] (2) According to the provided text, the great compassion is of the great bodhisattvas who, beginning at the eighth bhumi, are no longer disturbed by objects and notions.[2] (3) The great bodhisattvas of the tenth bhumi who have the Prajnaparamita as mother and the Dharmadhatu as body.[3] (4) Advanced bodhisattvas capable of knowing an unlimited number of kalpas.[4] (5) A bodhisattva of significant attainment, meant to embody and practice the six perfections.[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) A term used to describe enlightened beings who have committed to helping others attain enlightenment, indicating their noble and compassionate nature.[8] (4) Highly enlightened beings who are committed to helping others achieve enlightenment.[9] (5) Highly enlightened beings dedicated to aiding others in achieving enlightenment, invoked during the early stages of practice.[10]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Maitreya is recognized as one of the eight great bodhisattvas and is said to dwell in the Tushita heaven.[11] (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.[12]
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.[13] (2) A highly advanced being who has committed to achieving Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings.[14]
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.[15] (2) Highly enlightened beings who aspire to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all living beings.[16]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) A great Bodhisattva is what an icchantika impersonates, and according to the text, everybody, on seeing him, says that he is a true arhat, a great Bodhisattva.[17] (2) These beings strictly upheld the Dharma, demonstrating their commitment to preserving and promoting the teachings.[18]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) These are residents of a home characterized by spaciousness, and they are central figures in the unfolding narrative.[19]
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.[20] (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.[21] (3) Refers to highly revered spiritual practitioners in Buddhism, embodying the essence of compassion and wisdom.[22]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Highly enlightened beings who vow to help all sentient beings achieve liberation and enlightenment.[23]
The concept of Great Bodhisattva in scientific sources
Great Bodhisattva, specifically Shan Sheng, is mentioned in the Shengxuan jing as being sent by the Eastern Tathagata to the Supreme One, according to regional sources.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) The great bodhisattva Shan Sheng is mentioned as being sent by the Eastern Tathagata to the Supreme One, according to the Shengxuan jing 升玄經 (The Scripture of Ascending to the Mysterious).[24]