A Guide to the Bodhisattvas

When we meet with one of the Bodhisattvas—whether in a painting or sculpture or visualized in meditation—we are brought face to face with a being that embodies Enlightenment. An encounter with such a figure is likely to move us far more deeply than a list of the qualities of someone who is enlightened.

Bodhisattvas, or “Enlightenment Beings,” are dedicated to one thing: helping ordinary people on the path towards Enlightenment. The bodhisattvas know that they do not live alone; they are not apart from the rest of life. Seeking Enlightenment for themselves alone can never satisfy bodhisattvas as they witness the suffering that is all around. Their vision is to work endlessly in the service of living beings, helping them achieve Enlightenment.

This guide introduces a panoply of these figures, superheroes all, brilliant and beautiful, from the vast array that exists in the Buddhist tradition. Meet Tara, the rescuer; Manjusri, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom; Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion; and others. Meeting them, we are touched by their qualities; seeing them in our mind’s eye, we can be transformed.

This is fascinating reading that is written with a lightness of touch that really brings it to life.

A much published and well-respected Buddhist author, meditator, and teacher, Vessantara is a senior member of the Western Buddhist Order. He holds a particular love for Tibetan Buddhism and the associated visualization practices, and he is also well-known as an effective storyteller.