The Way of the Bodhisattva (Book and Audio-CD Set)

Treasured by Buddhists of all traditions, Shantideva's Way of the Bodhisattva (Bodhicharyā vatā ra) is a guide to cultivating the mind of enlightenment, and to generating the qualities of love, compassion, generosity, and patience. Presented in the form of a personal meditation in verse, it outlines the path of the bodhisattvas—those who renounce the peace of individual enlightenment and vow to work for the liberation of all beings and to attain buddhahood for their sake.

This book and audio-CD edition offers a new way to encounter the beauty and profundity of Shantideva's verses. Included is a complete reading of The Way of the Bodhisattva by Wulstan Fletcher, one of the members of the Padmakra Translation Group. A sixty-four-page booklet is also included, with a helpful introduction to The Way of the Bodhisattva and a short biography of Shantideva.

3 CDs and a 64-page booklet

Shantideva was a scholar in the eighth century from the monastic university Nalanda, one of the most celebrated centers of learning in ancient India. According to legend, Shantideva was greatly inspired by the celestial bodhisattva Manjushri, from whom he secretly received teachings and great insights. Yet as far as the other monks could tell, there was nothing special about Shantideva. In fact, he seemed to do nothing but eat and sleep. In an attempt to embarrass him, the monks forced Shantideva's hand by convincing him to publicly expound on the scriptures. To the amazement of all in attendance that day, Shantideva delivered the original and moving verses of the Bodhicharyavatara. When he reached verse thirty-four of the ninth chapter, he began to rise into the sky, until he at last disappeared. Following this, Shantideva became a great teacher.