Is this what you have in mind,' I asked the Dalai Lama…
“Is this what you have in mind,' I asked the Dalai Lama, 'when you say in teachings that the buddhas and bodhisattvas of the world are the most selfish beings of all, that by cultivating altruism they actually achieve ultimate happiness for themselves?' Yes. That's wise selfish,' he replied. 'Helping others not means we do this at our own expense. Not like this. Buddhas and bodhisattvas, these people very wise. All their lives they only want one thing: to achieve ultimate happiness. How to do this? By cultivating compassion, by cultivating altruism.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Selfishness can be transformed into ultimate happiness when compassion is cultivated for personal benefit.
In simple terms: Helping others benefits oneself when done with true compassion.
Key Takeaway
Practice genuine compassion for mutual happiness.
Themes
compassion
self-interest
spirituality
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- mindfulness practice
- community service
- personal growth
Key Concepts
Buddhist philosophy
psychology
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you ensure your altruism is authentic?
- What practices deepen true compassion?
A Different Perspective
Compassion must be sincere, not a self‑serving tactic.