Bodhisattva

Definition

A bodhisattva is a being who has attained enlightenment but chooses to delay nirvana in order to help others achieve liberation from suffering. This selfless path emphasizes compassion and altruism, making bodhisattvas central figures in Mahayana Buddhism. They are often depicted as guardians and guides in Buddhist art, reflecting their importance in both sculpture and painting.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bodhisattvas are characterized by their vow to attain Buddhahood for the sake of all sentient beings, showcasing their deep commitment to compassion.
2. In Buddhist sculpture, bodhisattvas are often depicted with elaborate adornments and symbols that represent their qualities and attributes, such as wisdom and mercy.
3. The concept of the bodhisattva is integral to Mahayana teachings, which advocate for the idea that anyone can become a bodhisattva through dedicated practice.
4. Bodhisattvas play a significant role in Buddhist paintings and murals, often being illustrated in narratives that showcase their heroic acts of compassion.
5. Popular bodhisattvas like Avalokiteshvara and Manjushri are frequently celebrated in festivals and rituals, highlighting their continued relevance in Buddhist practice.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of a bodhisattva differ from that of an arhat in Buddhist tradition?
  • While both bodhisattvas and arhats are enlightened beings, they have different goals within the Buddhist tradition. An arhat seeks personal liberation and attainment of nirvana, focusing on their own enlightenment. In contrast, a bodhisattva chooses to postpone their own nirvana to help others achieve liberation. This selfless attitude exemplifies the core values of compassion and altruism found in Mahayana Buddhism.
• What artistic features commonly represent bodhisattvas in Buddhist sculpture, and what do they signify?
  • Buddhist sculpture often depicts bodhisattvas with specific features such as elaborate crowns, multiple arms, or peaceful expressions. These elements signify their elevated spiritual status and virtues like wisdom and compassion. For example, multiple arms illustrate their ability to assist many beings at once, while ornate adornments represent their enlightenment. Such artistic choices serve to communicate the bodhisattva's role as a compassionate guide for sentient beings.
• Evaluate the impact of bodhisattvas on the development of Mahayana Buddhism and its art forms.
  • Bodhisattvas have significantly shaped the evolution of Mahayana Buddhism by promoting ideals of compassion and selflessness. Their presence in religious texts and teachings encouraged followers to embrace altruistic practices, leading to a broader understanding of enlightenment beyond personal salvation. In terms of art forms, depictions of bodhisattvas have inspired intricate sculptures and murals that convey their virtues, making them prominent subjects that communicate moral lessons and spiritual guidance within Buddhist culture.

Related terms

Mahayana Buddhism: A major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes the role of bodhisattvas and the importance of compassion in achieving enlightenment.

Nirvana: The ultimate goal in Buddhism, representing the liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and the end of suffering.

Avalokiteshvara:

A specific bodhisattva known for embodying compassion, often depicted in art with multiple arms to symbolize the ability to help many beings simultaneously.