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The four powers that increase joyous effort

88 Engaging in the Bodhisattva’s Deeds

Part of an ongoing series of teachings based on Shantideva’s classic text, Bodhisattvacharyavatara, often translated as Engaging in the Bodhisattva’s Deeds. Venerable Thubten Chodron also refers to the outline of the commentary by Gyaltsab Dharma Rinchen and the commentary by the Abbot Dragpa Gyaltsen.

  • The source of low self-esteem and how it affects our Dharma practice
  • Verse 30: Bodhicitta dispels discouragement
  • Verse 31: The four supports for joyous effort
  • Verse 32: Abandoning the opposing forces of enthusiasm
  • Verses 33 and 34: Recognizing our potential to overcome faults
  • Verse 35: Persevering to attain good qualities
  • Verse 36: Not squandering our precious human life
  • Verses 37 and 38: Regret for what one has not done

88 Engaging in the Bodhisattva’s Deeds: The four powers that increase joyous effort (download)

Venerable Thubten Chodron

Venerable Chodron emphasizes the practical application of Buddha’s teachings in our daily lives and is especially skilled at explaining them in ways easily understood and practiced by Westerners. She is well known for her warm, humorous, and lucid teachings. She was ordained as a Buddhist nun in 1977 by Kyabje Ling Rinpoche in Dharamsala, India, and in 1986 she received bhikshuni (full) ordination in Taiwan. Read her full bio.

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