The Aims of the Bodhisattva Precepts
The aims of Bodhisattva Precepts are: to guide society in the right direction; to accept all sentient beings with equal compassion; to accomplish Bodhi mind through helping sentient beings; and to encourage sentient beings to aspire to Bodhi mind.
The deterioration of social values is caused by defilement of the mind, and the undue exploitation of the natural environment is due to greed and ignorance. The causes of every type of destruction are skewed thinking and viewpoints. The Bodhisattva Path is a transforming power that enables people to explore and purify their inner self, to carry positive energy to society, and to promote peace and harmony in the world.
Receiving the Bodhisattva Precepts gives us an opportunity to cultivate the supreme Bodhi mind, and this opportunity is a precious gift to ourselves, to others, and to the world.
The Spirit and Characteristics of the Bodhisattva Precepts
“Precepts” are not meant to tie us down, but to present a mirror to reflect ourselves and provide a guide for us to follow in our life. Observing precepts puts our mind at ease and allows us to conduct ourselves appropriately.
The nature of the Bodhisattva Precepts is to aspire to the supreme Bodhi Mind. The foundation of Bodhi Mind is the Four Great Vows: to deliver innumerable sentient beings; to cut off endless vexations; to master limitless approaches to Dharma; to attain supreme Buddhahood.
The most distinguishing aspect of the Bodhisattva Precepts is the Three Cumulative Pure Precepts, which contain the essence and spirit of the Mahayana Buddhism. The Three Cumulative Precepts are: to stop all evil, to cultivate all virtue, and to benefit all sentient beings.
The Bodhisattva Precepts are to be upheld by both monastics and lay people. The depth and scope of the Bodhisattva Precepts are inexhaustible and immeasurable, but everyone, regardless of their practice level, can receive and uphold them.
Give yourself the most precious gift of your lifetime
All Buddhists have faith in the Buddha, learn from the Buddha’s teachings, and ultimately aspire to attain Buddhahood. Of course, this is not easy! One way to ensure that we stay on the right path is by receiving the Bodhisattva Precepts. Most precepts only last a lifetime, but according to Buddhist sutras, the Bodhisattva Precepts are unique because they will stay with us lifetime after lifetime, until we reach our ultimate goal of becoming a Buddha. Therefore, receiving the Precepts is the most precious gift that any Buddhist can obtain.
Note: Lay Bodhisattva Precepts event will be announced in November every year. Please check back this site "Events" section for related information.
Source: Step onto the Bodhisattva Path
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