In Buddhism, “The Bodhisattvas” refer to both historical and mythical figures who embody the ideal of the बोधिसत्त्व Bodhisattva—a being who aspires to attain बुद्धत्व Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings. These bodhisattvas, who have cultivated immense wisdom and compassion, are revered throughout the Buddhist world for their dedication to the liberation of others.
While many practitioners aim to follow the bodhisattva path, certain figures have become well-known across Buddhist traditions, symbolizing different qualities and representing the bodhisattva ideal at its highest level. These bodhisattvas can be historical individuals who lived exemplary lives, as well as mythic or celestial figures who are believed to reside in various realms, aiding beings through their compassionate actions.
Historical Bodhisattvas
Maitreya (Sanskrit: मैत्रेय, Pali: Metteyya): Maitreya is considered the future Buddha, currently a bodhisattva residing in the Tushita heaven. According to Buddhist prophecy, Maitreya will descend to the human realm when the teachings of the current Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, have been forgotten. Maitreya will rediscover the Dharma and become the next Buddha, leading beings to liberation in a future age.Mythical and Celestial Bodhisattvas
In Mahāyāna and Vajrayāna Buddhism, there are numerous celestial bodhisattvas who are said to exist beyond the historical realm, residing in heavenly or otherworldly dimensions. These bodhisattvas are believed to actively work for the liberation of all sentient beings through their infinite compassion and skillful means (upāya).
Avalokiteśvara (Sanskrit: अवलोकितेश्वर, Tibetan: Chenrezig, Chinese: 觀音 Guanyin): The bodhisattva of infinite compassion, Avalokiteśvara is one of the most widely revered bodhisattvas in Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions. Avalokiteśvara is said to take many forms in order to help sentient beings, manifesting in both male and female appearances, the latter often as Guanyin in East Asian cultures. Avalokiteśvara embodies the compassionate ideal of a bodhisattva, vowing not to attain full Buddhahood until all beings are liberated from suffering.Manjushri (Sanskrit: मञ्जुश्री, Chinese: 文殊菩薩 Wénshū Púsà): The bodhisattva of wisdom, Manjushri represents the perfected insight into emptiness (śūnyatā) and the sharpness of discerning wisdom. Depicted wielding a flaming sword that cuts through ignorance, Manjushri is regarded as a figure who helps practitioners develop profound understanding and clarity on the path to enlightenment.Kṣitigarbha (Sanskrit: क्षितिगर्भ, Chinese: 地藏菩薩 Dìzàng Púsà): The bodhisattva of the hell realms, Kṣitigarbha vows to liberate all beings trapped in the suffering of the lower realms, particularly those in the hell realms. He is often depicted holding a staff and a wish-fulfilling jewel, symbolizing his ability to open the doors of liberation for even the most tormented beings.Samantabhadra (Sanskrit: समन्तभद्र, Chinese: 普賢菩薩 Pǔxián Púsà): The bodhisattva of great action and virtue, Samantabhadra is associated with the practice of the bodhisattva’s vows and the perfection of virtues. He is often paired with Manjushri, representing the union of wisdom and compassionate action. Samantabhadra is particularly associated with the dedication of merit and the wish to benefit all sentient beings.Vajrapāṇi (Sanskrit: वज्रपाणि): Known as the protector of the Buddha and the bodhisattva of power, Vajrapāṇi represents the forceful aspect of compassion, using power and skillful means to remove obstacles to the Dharma. He is often depicted in wrathful forms, wielding a vajra (thunderbolt) and protecting the teachings and practitioners from negative forces.The Role of Bodhisattvas in Practice:
In Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, bodhisattvas serve as both guides and protectors for practitioners. They are seen as role models of compassion and wisdom, embodying the ideal qualities that all practitioners aim to develop. Devotional practices, such as chanting mantras or making offerings, are often directed toward these bodhisattvas to receive their blessings and guidance on the path to enlightenment.
Bodhisattvas are also believed to respond to the needs of sentient beings, manifesting in various forms to help in times of suffering, danger, or ignorance. This belief underscores the Mahayana and Vajrayana emphasis on the altruistic nature of the bodhisattva path, where the welfare of others takes precedence over one’s own liberation.
In summary, The Bodhisattvas include both historical figures like Siddhartha Gautama and Maitreya, and celestial, mythical figures like Avalokiteśvara, Manjushri, and Kṣitigarbha. These bodhisattvas embody the qualities of perfect compassion, wisdom, and power, working tirelessly for the liberation of all beings, and serve as important models and protectors for Buddhist practitioners on the path to enlightenment.