Bodhicharyavatara Chapter 7, Stanzas 49-54

Ringu Tulku Rinpoche
Teachings on Bodhicharyavatara
Chapter 7: Diligence
Session 26
Stanzas 49-54

Rinpoche goes more deeply into the three things to which confidence must be applied: action, affliction and ability. He returns to Verse 49, elaborating further on training ourselves to have confidence in our actions, even when we feel alone and unsupported, before discussing negative afflictions and the development the confidence required to overcome those, as well as our ability to help ourselves and others, without conceit.

We might feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the task, especially when we feel that those around us are oblivious to the negativity they are creating for themselves when we observe it will take them further away from the happiness they pursue.

It can also be difficult to see our own fault-lines of deceit or arrogance when they creep in as we observe the behaviour of others, so being confident but not self-righteous requires clarity on our part and it is important to understand the difference. It is important also to recognise our own limitations, but not be put off when our efforts are mocked and rejected. Steadfastness is key to keeping a strong heart.

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