What Are Bodhisattva Vows?
by Kathleen Karlsen, Author of Vocal Medicine
Bodhisattva vows are an outer expression of the inner determination of an enlightened being to exist in a compassionate and helpful relationship with those who are still evolving. These vows are a very serious step for an enlightened being, demonstrating an infinite level of mercy for others.
Bodhisattva Vows of the Medicine Buddha
The Medicine Buddha is the name of a particular bodhisattva who has pledged to remain with earth until all beings are liberated. The Medicine Buddha made 12 great bodhisattva vows. A succinct version of these bodhisattva vows are as follows:
Vow to Teach
I vow that my body shall shine as beams of brilliant light on this world and that my teachings shall remove all ignorance. May all beings attain enlightenment like the Buddha.
Vow to Radiate Light
I vow that my body be like crystal, radiating rays of light to every corner and bringing wisdom to all beings. May all beings strengthen their spiritual power and physical energy to fulfill their dreams and purposes in life.
Vow to Grant Wisdom
I vow that I shall grant through boundless wisdom all the things that beings require, and relieve them from pain and guilt resulting from materialistic desires. All shall be generously shared so that all live harmoniously together.
Vow to Lead Those Who Are Astray
I vow to lead those who have gone astray back to the path of righteousness. Let them be corrected and returned to the way of the Buddha.
Vow to Induce Moral Conduct
I vow that I shall enable all sentient beings to observe precepts for spiritual purity and moral conduct. All shall be guided by repentance.
Vow to Grant Healing
I vow that all beings who are physically disabled or sick shall be blessed with good health both physically and mentally.
Vow to Relieve Poverty
I vow to relieve all pain and poverty. The sick be cured, the helpless be helped, and the poor shall be assisted.
Vow to Bless Women
I vow to help women who are undergoing suffering. By hearing my name, paying homage and praying, their wishes will be granted and they will ultimately attain Buddhahood.
Vow to Defeat Evil Thoughts
I vow to free all beings from evil thought. I shall lead them onto the path of light through righteousness and honor.
Vow to Save Prisoners
I vow to save prisoners who have genuinely repented. I will save victims of natural disasters. My supreme powers will bless those who are sincere.
Vow to Relieve Hunger
I vow to save those who suffer from hunger and starvation. If they hear my name and faithfully cherish it, I favor them with the best food that they may eventually lead a tranquil and happy life.
Vow to Save from Dangerous Insects
I vow to save those who suffer from poverty, tormented by mosquitoes and wasps day and night. If they cherish my name with sincerity and practice service to others, they will be able to achieve their wishes.
What is a Buddha?
“Buddha” is a type of honorary title. The word means “awakened.” A Buddha is one who has attained Bodhi or an ideal state or wisdom and perfection. The original Buddha, traditionally known as Gautama, lived around 500BC. His life and teachings form the basis of the historical and modern Buddhist tradition.
Core Teachings of Buddhism
The core teachings of Buddhism are the the Four Noble Truths: The truth of suffering, the cause of suffering, the end of suffering and the path that leads to the end of suffering. Much of the emphasis in Buddhism is on the impermanence of life.
Schools of Buddhism
Today there are many branches or schools of Buddhism. Some emphasize particular aspects of the original teachings. In some cases, the teachings have been further developed. Specific groups may also favor different forms of meditation or spiritual practice.
Importance of the Bodhisattva Vows
Those who have taken the bodhisattva vows are exhibiting the highest level of compassion, as they are no longer required to incarnate on earth or be associated with lower dimensions in the universe. A bodhisattva vow binds the fate of an enlightened being to the fate of those who are still evolving.
Role of the Medicine Buddha
The central Medicine Buddha is part of Chinese, Japanese and Tibetan Buddhism. There are temples dedicated to his veneration and sutras referring to the Medicine Buddha in various places in these regions. In addition to Mahayana Buddhism, there are practitioners in Vajrayana Buddhism who recognize the Medicine Buddha.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Medicine Buddha Symbols: Explore the healing power of the Medicine Buddha symbols. Gain an understanding of the meaning of these symbols and their use.
Medicine Buddha Testimonials: Be inspired by the ways that others have used the Medicine Buddha mantra for healing in their lives.
Medicine Buddha Mantra: Explore an article including a word by word meaning of the powerful Medicine Buddha mantra. Understand the history of this powerful mantra!
Kathleen Karlsen is an author, musician, artist, and composer. She has written three books (The Color-Music Connection, Flower Symbols, and Vocal Medicine) and over 200 articles. Her YouTube channel features over 600 videos. Kathleen and her family live in Bozeman, Montana, USA.
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