A virtuous man or woman who is determined to develop the…
“A virtuous man or woman who is determined to develop the Supreme Enlightened Mind, should thus develop it: I have to lead all living beings to put a stop to (reincarnation) and escape (suffering), and when they have been so led, not one of them in fact stops (reincarnating) or escapes suffering. Why? Because, if a Bodhisattva believes in the notion of an ego, a personality, or a living being, he is not a true Bodhisattva.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A true Bodhisattva must relinquish ego and personal identity to guide all beings out of suffering and rebirth, recognizing that clinging to selfhood contradicts enlightenment.
In simple terms: Let go of ego to help others escape suffering.
Key Takeaway
Release self‑attachment, guide all beings.
Themes
compassion
non‑attachment
enlightenment
Mood
reflective
determined
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- spiritual practice
- teaching
- community service
- personal meditation
Key Concepts
Bodhisattva ideal
emptiness
interdependence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one recognize hidden ego in altruistic actions?
- What practices reveal true non‑attachment?
A Different Perspective
Even with self‑lessness, the Bodhisattva may still be limited by personal bias.