Q. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:

The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.
Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment.
Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

A Bodhisattva (Pali: bodhisatta) is an individual who has achieved Enlightenment or Buddhahood but vows to return to the cycle of samsāra (worldly existence) to assist all sentient beings in attaining Buddhahood. This concept, central to Mahayana Buddhism, emphasises universal compassion and selfless dedication to the liberation of all beings.
The term “bodhisattva,” meaning “Buddha-to-be,” is significant in Buddhist philosophy. The concept of the bodhisattva, along with that of the Buddha and the chakravartin(universal ruler), existed in India before Gautama Buddha’s time.
- It also encompasses Gautama’s previous rebirths, during which he progressed toward enlightenment across lifetimes as animals, humans, or other forms.
- According to Buddhist tradition, Gautama was born as a prince in a kingdom in northeastern India, but he renounced his royal life and wealth to pursue enlightenment. Eventually, he transitioned from a Bodhisattva to a fully awakened Buddha.
In Mahāyāna Buddhism, which is widely practised in East and Central Asia, the concept of Bodhisattva expands beyond Gautama.
Mahāyāna posits that every true follower’s ultimate goal is to attain Buddhahood, making the Bodhisattva vow central to their spiritual journey.
This school emphasises the existence of multiple Buddhas and describes highly evolved Bodhisattvas who have cultivated profound merits and powers across countless lifetimes.

Avalokitesvara (Padmapani):

He is also known as the Bodhisattva of Compassion and is one of the most revered figures in Buddhism.
He is often depicted holding a lotus flower, symbolising purity and compassion, and is prominently featured in the Ajanta Caves murals.
In Cambodian Theravada Buddhism, he is referred to as Lokesvara; in some traditions, he is portrayed as a feminine figure.
The Dalai Lama is believed to be an incarnation of Avalokitesvara, emphasising his role as a protector and guide for all sentient beings.

Vajrapani:

He embodies the power of the Buddha and the energies of the Five Tathagatas: Vairocana, Akshobhya, Amitabha, Ratnasambhava, and Amoghasiddhi.
He is often depicted in the Ajanta Caves, symbolising strength, protection, and the force required to overcome obstacles on the spiritual path.

Manjusri:

He is the Bodhisattva of Wisdom and symbolises the clarity and insight of the Buddha.
He is often portrayed wielding a sword, representing the ability to cut through ignorance and delusion.
Manjusri is one of the three protecting deities surrounding the Buddha, embodying the wisdom necessary for enlightenment.

Samantabhadra:

He is associated with meditation and practice, highlighting the importance of spiritual discipline.
He is part of the Shakyamuni Triad, standing alongside the Buddha and Manjusri, and symbolises the practical application of Buddhist teachings in daily life.

Ksitigarbha:

He is depicted as a monk who has taken a profound vow not to achieve Buddhahood until all beings in hell have been freed from suffering.
Known as the guide for beings in hell, he plays a critical role in alleviating pain and providing hope to those in distress.

Maitreya:

He is revered as the Future Buddha, destined to descend to Earth, attain perfect enlightenment, and teach the pure Dharma.
The popular image of the Laughing Buddha is often considered an incarnation of Maitreya, symbolising joy, abundance, and spiritual promise.

Akasagarbha:

He is linked to the concept of space, symbolising its vast and infinite nature.
He represents boundless compassion and wisdom, reflecting the immensity and interconnectedness of the universe.

Tara:

She is a Vajrayana deity who embodies success, labour, and accomplishments.
She is revered as a saviour and protector, offering assistance to those facing obstacles and challenges.
Tara’s presence in Buddhist practice highlights her role as a guiding force for overcoming adversity.

Vasudhara:

She symbolises wealth, prosperity, and abundance.
She is especially popular in Nepal, where she is worshipped as a deity who fosters fertility, fortune, and material well-being.

Skanda:

He is recognised as the Protector of Viharas (Buddhist monasteries) and the teachings of the Buddha.
He is honoured for his role in safeguarding practitioners and maintaining the sanctity of sacred spaces.

Sitatapatra:

She is a revered deity in Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, known for protecting against supernatural dangers.
She is a guardian figure who shields followers from harm and helps preserve the integrity of their spiritual journey.