Bodhisattva Quote by Tenzin Palmo
“We have compassion because of the incredible pain and suffering which we as unenlightened beings cause to ourselves and all others through our ignorance. This is why we're trying to get out. This is why the bodhisattva has meaning. Because we're saying, no we won't get out, we won't escape until we've helped all other beings to escape, but most other beings don't even want to escape. They don't even know that there is an escape, and it's hard, so it's going to take an awfully long time.”
About This Quote
Compassion arises from recognizing shared suffering; bodhisattva vows to help all beings despite their ignorance.
In simple terms: Compassion motivates helping others.
Cultivate compassion for all.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- volunteering
- mindfulness
- social work
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance self‑care with helping?
- What steps make compassion actionable?
Helping others can be overwhelming.