bodhicitta

Bodhicitta is the mind dedicated to attaining awakening for the benefit of all sentient beings. Included are explanations of bodhicitta, its advantages, and how to develop bodhicitta.

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Stone sculpture of monk meditating near Chaityas.
Exploring Monastic Life 2005

Development of the sangha

Relating our ways of being in the world to our state of mind and how…

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A prison inmate looks through the window of a cell and the other inmate squatting in a corner, his hands covering his head.
Prison Dharma

Seeking liberation while in prison

Lama Zopa Rinpoche comments on the karmic connection those who work with incarcerated people must…

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Buddha statue on a pedestal outdoors with a small ceramic white dove in front of him.
37 Practices of Bodhisattvas

Developing a Dharma mind

The importance of practicing ourselves before we can help others, guarding against hypocrisy and constantly…

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Buddha statue on a pedestal outdoors with a small ceramic white dove in front of him.
37 Practices of Bodhisattvas

Stages of the path to enlightenment

Lamrim topics and thought transformation practices within the 37 practices of bodhisattvas.

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Golden statue of Maitreya bodhisattva.
37 Practices of Bodhisattvas

The 37 Practices of Bodhisattvas

Verses on developing the qualities of a bodhisattva by Gyelsay Togmay Zangpo, plus a recording…

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Venerable Chodron and retreatants group photo in 2005.
Vajrasattva Winter Retreat 2005

Answering questions from retreatants

Guided questioning on selflessness. Explaining concept of taking refuge with the three jewels. On death,…

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An Abbey guest, picking apples from a tree.
Contentment and Happiness

Living with optimism

Smiling is no unfailing remedy against everything—but it can help!

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A hand reaching out to some light in the background.
The Importance of Motivation

Why am I giving?

Offering service with a long-term view based on bodhicitta. Ways of working on doubts and…

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A white stone statute of buddha with wood background.
Bodhisattva Path

The seed of enlightenment

Letting go of bias, anger, resentment, and grudges, and how to cultivate equanimity, kindness, and…

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Orange streaks in a cloudy sky as the sun sets.
Wheel of Sharp Weapons 2004-06

Wheel of Sharp Weapons: Verses 101-104

Eliminating our own self-centeredness and our own self grasping ignorance and thereby developing the compassion…

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The sun rises in an orange misty sky above trees and mountains.
Wheel of Sharp Weapons Retreat 2004

Wheel of Sharp Weapons: Verse 104-Conclusion

How things exist dependent on causes and conditions, they appear one way and exist in…

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