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What is the Great Vehicle? What is the mode of procedure of the Bodhisattva path? We begin with the topic of the altruistic intention to achieve enlightenment in which one values others more than oneself. The Great Vehicle path requires the vast motivation of a Bodhisattva, who, not seeking just his or her welfare, takes on the burden of bringing about the welfare of all sentient beings. When a person generate this attitude, they enter within the Great Vehicle, and as long as it has not been generated, one cannot be counted among those of the Great Vehicle. This attitude really has great power; it, of course, is helpful for people practicing religion, but it also is helpful for those who are just concerned with the affairs of this lifetime. The root of happiness is altruism - the wish to be of service to others.

Tenzin Gyatso#4

BuddhismServiceHappinessAltruismEnlightenmentMotivation

About this quote

What does it mean?
The Bodhisattva path begins with altruistic intention, valuing others above oneself to achieve enlightenment for all beings.
In plain terms
True happiness comes from wanting to serve others rather than just yourself.
What can you take from it?
Cultivate altruism to find meaning in both spiritual and daily life.

Where it applies

  • spiritual practice
  • daily decision making
  • leadership

Putting it to work

  • practice gratitude
  • volunteer work
  • mindful listening

Questions to consider

  • How can I serve others today?
  • What motivates my actions?

Another view

Some may find this ideal difficult to sustain in competitive environments.

More from Tenzin Gyatso

  1. Religion does not mean just precepts, a temple, monastery, or other external signs, for these as well as hearing and thinking are subsidiary factors in taming …

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  2. I feel that the essence of spiritual practice is your attitude toward others. When you have a pure, sincere motivation, then you have right attitude toward oth…

    Permalink to quote #5
  3. It is very important to generate a good attitude, a good heart, as much as possible. From this, happiness in both the short term and the long term for both you…

    Permalink to quote #2

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