On Generating the Resolve to Become a Buddha: Three Classic Texts on the Bodhisattva Vow: On Generating the Resolve to Become a Buddha Chapter Six of ... on Buddhahood

by Nāgārjuna, Bhikshu Dharmamitra (Translator), Shramana Shixian

In this volume, Bhikshu Dharmamitra presents translations of three classic works on the bodhisattva vow (bodhicitta) authored by: The early Indian monastic eminence, Arya Nagarjuna (2nd c.); The Dhyana Master and Pureland Patriarch, Sheng'an Shixian (1686-1734); The Tang Dynasty literatus and prime minister, the Honorable Peixiu (797-870). Given that the bodhisattva vow constitutes the very essence of the path to buddhahood, this text can be said to be dedicated to the most important topic in all of Mahayana Buddhism. The translation and notes are by the American monk, Bhikshu Dharmamitra. This volume includes text outlines and facing-page source text in both traditional and simplified scripts.

137 pages, Paperback

First published February 15, 2009

About the author

Acharya Nāgārjuna (Telugu: నాగార్జున) (c. 150 - 250 CE) was an Indian philosopher and the founder of the Madhyamaka school of Mahāyāna Buddhism.

His writings are the basis for the formation of the Madhyamaka school, which was transmitted to China under the name of the Three Treatise (Sanlun) School. He is credited with developing the philosophy of the Prajnaparamita sutras, and was closely associated with the Buddhist university of Nalanda. In the Jodo Shinshu branch of Buddhism, he is considered the First Patriarch.

Reviews

[Nicholas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The many lifetimes path of a bodhisattva, who works to help all beings tread the path toward buddhahood is not easy. So a certain, clear, strong motivation is required first of all. These three texts give many reasons for choosing this selfless way.