The Way of the Bodhisattva
If there’s a remedy when trouble strikes, What reason is there for dejection? And if there is no help for it, What use is there in being glum?
Śāntideva • 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
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
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
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
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
“But,” you say, “it’s like the flame That perfectly illuminates itself.”
Śāntideva • The Way of the Bodhisattva
Those who harm me rise against me— It’s my karma that has summoned them. And if through this these beings go to hell, Is it not I who bring their ruin?
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.