The Way of the Bodhisattva
If those who are like wanton children Are by nature prone to injure others, There’s no reason for our rage; It’s like resenting fire for being hot.
Śāntideva • The Way of the Bodhisattva
The cause of happiness is rare, And many are the seeds of suffering! But if I have no pain, I’ll never long for freedom; Therefore, O my mind, be steadfast!
Śāntideva • The Way of the Bodhisattva
No one is there, all in all, Who, being angry, lives at ease.
Śāntideva • The Way of the Bodhisattva
Suffering also has its worth. Through sorrow, pride is driven out And pity felt for those who wander in saṃsāra; Evil is avoided; goodness seems delightful.
Śāntideva • The Way of the Bodhisattva
So come what may, I’ll not upset My cheerful happiness of mind. Dejection never brings me what I want; My virtue will be warped and marred by it.
Śāntideva • The Way of the Bodhisattva
Because of them, and through my patience, All my many sins are cleansed and purified. But they will be the ones who, thanks to me, Will have the long-drawn agonies of hell.
Śāntideva • The Way of the Bodhisattva
If I repay them harm for harm, Indeed they’ll not be saved thereby. My conduct will in turn be marred,
Śāntideva • The Way of the Bodhisattva
We who are like children Shrink from pain, but love its causes. We hurt ourselves through our misdeeds! So why should others be the object of our rage?
Śāntideva • The Way of the Bodhisattva
When sorrows fall upon the wise, Their minds should be serene and undisturbed. For in their war against defiled emotion, Many are the hardships, as in every battle.