bodhisattvasenlightened

Bodhisattvasenlightened refers to a concept within Mahayana Buddhism concerning beings who have attained enlightenment but choose to delay their final nirvana to help all sentient beings achieve liberation. The term "bodhisattva" itself is derived from Sanskrit, combining "bodhi" (awakening or enlightenment) and "sattva" (being). Therefore, a bodhisattvasenlightened is a being dedicated to the path of enlightenment for the benefit of all.

These enlightened beings are motivated by immense compassion (karuna) and wisdom (prajna). They possess deep understanding of the nature of reality and recognize the interconnectedness of all existence. Rather than seeking personal salvation in isolation, they vow to remain in the cycle of rebirth, or samsara, to guide others towards the cessation of suffering. This path is often described as arduous, requiring countless lifetimes of practice and self-sacrifice.

Key bodhisattvas in Mahayana traditions include Avalokiteshvara, the embodiment of compassion, and Manjushri, the personification of wisdom. Devotees often seek the assistance of bodhisattvas through prayer and meditation, believing they can offer aid and inspiration on the spiritual journey. The ultimate goal for a bodhisattva is not just their own enlightenment, but the enlightenment of all beings, a state known as Buddhahood. The ideal of the bodhisattva serves as a central tenet in Mahayana Buddhist practice and philosophy, emphasizing altruism and universal responsibility.