CULTIVATING ALTRUISM FOR ALL BEINGS
Teachings on Chapter 10 of the Bodhicharyavatara
During this retreat, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche will conclude his teachings on the Bodhicharyavatara, or the Introduction to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life, the classic masterpiece composed by Shantideva, the 8th century Indian saint.
H.H. the Dalai Lama says: “If I have any understanding of compassion and the practice of the bodhisattva path, it is entirely on the basis of this text that I possess it.”
These sacred teachings encourage us to recognize the immense potential for altruism within us, waiting to be awakened. Shantideva’s words illuminate the path toward the cessation of suffering, inspiring us to embrace wisdom and compassion as our guiding lights.
This year, in a culmination of the past 9 years of teaching on this text in Lerab Ling, Rinpoche will focus on the last chapter of the book, chapter 10: Dedication, and also grant the Bodhisattva Vow.
In Chapter 10, Shantideva dedicates the merit derived from practicing the Bodhicharyavatara to benefit all sentient beings in an inspiring and deeply heartfelt manner. This compassionate act serves as a profound inspiration for those who embark on the Bodhisattva path, nurturing a genuine desire to bring happiness and liberation to all sentient beings. Through these teachings, we learn to cultivate altruism, making it the foundation of our actions and the essence of our spiritual journey.
Chapter 10 concludes with the famous verse which is quoted time and time again by all great Buddhist teachers:
For as long as space exists
And sentient beings endure,
May I too remain,
To dispel the misery of the world.
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Video will follow soon.
Photos thanks to Ger Reinders.
For more information, visit: https://lerabling.org