Engaging in the Bodhisattva's Deeds (2020–present)

Teachings on Shantideva’s Engaging in the Bodhisattva’s Deeds. Streamed live from Sravasti Abbey on Thursdays at 9 am Pacific Time.

Root Text

A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life translated by Stephen Batchelor and published by the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives is available as an ebook on Google Play here.

Introduction and homage

Giving an overview of the text and covering the Verse on Shantideva’s homage to the Triple Gem.

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Freedoms and fortunes of a precious human life

Covering verses 1.1c-1.4 on Shantideva’s purpose for writing the text and the eight freedoms and ten fortunes afforded by a precious human life.

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Why bodhicitta is so powerful

Finishing teaching on the ten fortunes of a precious human life and explaining why bodhicitta is so powerful (Verses 1.4–1.7).

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The benefits of bodhicitta

Meditating on equanimity and explaining the benefits of bodhicitta, covering various analogies that explain these benefits (Verses 1.8 - 1.14)

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The bodhisattva ethical code

Giving commentary to Verses 15-23, explaining 8 guidelines that keep bodhicitta from degrading and teaching on the benefits of aspiring and engaging bodhicitta

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The merits of bodhicitta

Answering questions and teaching on Verses 1.24-1.33 on the vast merits that come from generating bodhicitta.

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Offering natural substances

Beginning Chapter 2 "Purifying Negativities" with verses on making offerings to buddhas and bodhisattvas with things found in nature (Verses 1.34-2.6)

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Making sensuous offerings to the Buddhas

Covering Verses 2.7-2.21 about mentally emanated offerings for Buddhas and bodhisattvas, including common and peerless offerings that delight the senses

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Different kinds of refuge

Teaching on the different kinds of refuge – causal and resultant, and final and provisional (Verses 2.21-2.26)

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Removing barriers to forgiveness

Discussing what gets in the way of forgiving others and responsibility for our harmful actions

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Regretting negativity by reflecting on death

Giving commentary to Verses 32-41, showing how reflecting on death can help clarify what is important in life and inspire us to practice the Dharma

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