Who is Bodhisatta?
Introduction
Have you ever wondered how a Buddha attains enlightenment? Before reaching the supreme state of Buddhahood, every Buddha undergoes an incredibly long journey filled with wisdom, patience, and virtuous deeds. This journey begins as a Bodhisatta (Pali) or Bodhisattva (Sanskrit). But who exactly is a Bodhisatta? What makes them different from ordinary beings? Let’s explore the meaning, purpose, and spiritual practices of a Bodhisatta in detail.
It is important to note that this article is not intended to encourage one to become a Bodhisatta. Lord Buddha never instructed anyone to strive to be a Bodhisatta or a Buddha. Instead, in this Gautama Buddha’s dispensation, we are only required to follow the Noble Eightfold Path and realize the Four Noble Truths. This article simply aims to appreciate the immense efforts of a Bodhisatta in attaining knowledge and calming the mind, serving as an inspiration for noble friends on their spiritual journey.
What Does ‘Bodhisatta’ Mean?
The term Bodhisatta comes from two words:
- Bodhi – meaning wisdom, enlightenment, or ultimate understanding.
- Satta – meaning being or individual.
Thus, a Bodhisatta is an individual committed to attaining Bodhi or supreme enlightenment. Unlike ordinary beings who seek personal success or temporary happiness, a Bodhisatta dedicates their entire existence to developing wisdom and helping others.
The Path of a Bodhisatta
A Bodhisatta is not just an enlightened being; they are a future Buddha in training. Before becoming a Buddha, they must go through countless lifetimes, practicing and perfecting virtues known as the Ten Perfections (Dasa Pāramitā). These are essential qualities that shape the Bodhisatta’s character and prepare them for their final birth as the Buddha.
The Ten Perfections (Dasa Pāramitā)
Every Bodhisatta cultivates ten noble qualities, known as the Ten Perfections, over millions of lifetimes. Let’s explore them one by one:
1. Perfection in Charity (Dāna Pāramī)
Giving selflessly without expecting anything in return is the first step on the Bodhisatta’s path. This could be giving material wealth, knowledge, or even one’s own life for the benefit of others. A true Bodhisatta sees generosity as an essential practice in removing greed and attachment.
2. Perfection in Morality (Sīla Pāramī)
A Bodhisatta strictly follows ethical conduct, refraining from harming others through body, speech, or mind. Their actions are guided by compassion and honesty, ensuring they create a positive impact on the world.
3. Perfection in Renunciation (Nekkhamma Pāramī)
To achieve enlightenment, one must let go of worldly desires. A Bodhisatta gradually detaches from material possessions, relationships, and even personal identity, understanding that clinging leads to suffering.
4. Perfection in Wisdom (Paññā Pāramī)
A Bodhisatta continuously seeks knowledge and deeper understanding of reality. They develop insight into the nature of existence, impermanence, and suffering, ultimately leading to enlightenment.
5. Perfection in Effort (Viriya Pāramī)
Great determination and effort are needed to walk the long path toward Buddhahood. A Bodhisatta never gives up, no matter how many challenges arise. They maintain perseverance and resilience in all aspects of their journey.
6. Perfection in Tolerance (Khanti Pāramī)
Patience is a core virtue of a Bodhisatta. They endure hardships, insults, and suffering with a calm mind. By practicing patience, they develop unshakable inner peace.
7. Perfection in Truthfulness (Sacca Pāramī)
Honesty is fundamental to the Bodhisatta’s practice. They always speak and act truthfully, ensuring that their thoughts, words, and actions align with reality.
8. Perfection in Resolution (Adhiṭṭhāna Pāramī)
Unwavering determination is necessary to complete the path to Buddhahood. A Bodhisatta makes firm resolutions and follows through with them, no matter how long it takes.
9. Perfection in Loving-Kindness (Mettā Pāramī)
A Bodhisatta radiates unconditional love toward all beings, including friends, enemies, and strangers. Their compassion extends to all forms of life, making them a source of kindness and peace.
10. Perfection in Equanimity (Upekkhā Pāramī)
The final perfection is maintaining a balanced mind in all situations. A Bodhisatta does not get attached to success or despair in failure. They remain calm and composed, knowing that everything is temporary.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Buddha?
The journey of a Bodhisatta is not short it spans countless eons (kalpas). Before attaining Buddhahood, a Bodhisatta must perfect all ten paramitas across numerous lifetimes. Each life is dedicated to fulfilling a specific virtue, facing immense challenges, and developing ultimate wisdom.
The Role of a Bodhisatta in the World
Unlike ordinary beings, a Bodhisatta dedicates their life to selfless service. Their mission is to guide others toward the path of enlightenment. They are not yet Buddhas, but they possess extraordinary wisdom and compassion, making them exceptional teachers and role models.
Examples of Famous Bodhisattas
Many Bodhisattas are revered in Buddhist traditions. Some of the most well-known include:
- Prince Siddhartha Gautama – Before becoming Buddha, he lived many lives as a Bodhisatta.
- Maitreya – The future Buddha who will appear when the teachings of the current Buddha fade.
Conclusion
A Bodhisatta is a being dedicated to achieving enlightenment for the benefit of all living beings. Through the practice of the Ten Perfections, they cultivate wisdom, compassion, and selflessness over countless lifetimes. Their ultimate goal is to become a Buddha, guiding others toward liberation from suffering. The path is long and challenging, but through unwavering effort and boundless love, a Bodhisatta fulfills their noble mission.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a Bodhisatta and a Buddha?
A Bodhisatta is on the path to enlightenment, whereas a Buddha has already attained full enlightenment and teaches others.
2. How does a person become a Bodhisatta?
A person becomes a Bodhisatta by making a strong resolution to attain Buddhahood and practicing the Ten Perfections over multiple lifetimes.
3. Are all Bodhisattas destined to become Buddhas?
Yes, if they complete their journey and fulfill all paramitas, they will eventually become a Buddha.
4. Can anyone become a Bodhisatta?
Yes, anyone who aspires to attain Buddhahood and works toward it with dedication can become a Bodhisatta.
5. How long does it take for a Bodhisatta to become a Buddha?
It takes countless eons (kalpas) of dedicated practice and numerous lifetimes of selfless service to complete the path to Buddhahood.
Namo Buddhaya!
0 Comments