The Bodhisattva Doctrine in Buddhist Sanskrit Literature

Book excerpt: The present work consists of seven chapters that deal with the Bodhisattva doctrine as expounded in the principal Buddhist Sanskrit Literature. Chapter 1 describes the nature of the Bodhisattva doctrine with particular stress on the distinct chatacteristics of arhat, Bodhisattva and sravaka. Chapter II recounts the different factors including the influence Persian religio-cult, Greek art and Christian ethics that contributed to the rise and growth of the Boddhisattva doctrine. Chapter III expounds the production of the thought of Enlightenment for the welfare and liberation of all creatures. Chapters IV describes thirty-seven practices and principles conducive to the attainment of Enlightenment. Chapter V expalins the ten perfections that lead to welfare, rebirth, serenity, spiritual cultivation, and supreme knowledge. Chapter VI states different stages of spiritual progress in the aspirant`s long journey to the goal of final emancipation and Chapter VII relates the events of the Gautama Buddha`s past lives as Bodhisattva. The book contains comprehensive notes and references besides a general index appended at the end. It is written in a very lucid style that speaks of the writer`s scholarly acumen and mastry of literary art.