Significance of Motivation

In Mahayana, motivation is crucial as it represents the driving intention behind one's actions. This intention determines whether the actions yield virtuous or non-virtuous outcomes. Additionally, the underlying motivations significantly influence the purity of a practitioner's dharma practice. Hence, understanding and cultivating positive motivations is essential for achieving beneficial results in one's spiritual journey.

Synonyms: Inspiration, Enthusiasm, Ambition, Determination, Stimulation, Encouragement, Zeal, Passion

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Motivation'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, Motivation encompasses the intentions influencing a practitioner's actions, determining the purity of their dharma practice and the virtuous or non-virtuous outcomes of those actions.

Significance of Motivation in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):

Mahayana Books

From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara

(1) The underlying intentions that drive a practitioner's actions and impact the purity of their dharma practice.^[1] (2) The driving intention behind one’s actions which ultimately defines whether they have virtuous or non-virtuous results.^[2]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.