Śāntideva
Śāntideva: A Buddhist Mastermind of Compassion
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Śāntideva's full name is unknown, but his most commonly used alias is Śāntarakṣita (not to be confused with the other Tibetan master), while another prominent name associated with him is the "Great Bodhisattva".
Birth and Death Dates
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Śāntideva was born in 685 CE during the reign of King Harsha. Unfortunately, no accurate records of his death are available.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Śāntideva was a Buddhist master from ancient India and later a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism. He is often described as a Mahayana Buddhist scholar-monk and philosopher.
Early Life and Background
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Little is known about Śāntideva's early life, but it is believed that he was born into a Brahmin family in the kingdom of Magadha (present-day Bihar). As a child prodigy, Śāntideva demonstrated exceptional intellectual abilities from an early age. He quickly mastered Buddhist scriptures and other subjects, which would serve as the foundation for his future achievements.
Major Accomplishments
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Śāntideva's most notable accomplishment was authoring the iconic _Bodhicaryāvatāra_ (Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life), a seminal Buddhist text that is still widely studied and revered today. This influential work not only showcases his mastery over Mahayana philosophy but also demonstrates an unparalleled depth in understanding human nature and the complexities of life.
Notable Works or Actions
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Śāntideva's literary contributions are immense, with works like _Bodhicaryāvatāra_ standing as testaments to his genius. Additionally, he is believed to have written commentaries on other significant Buddhist texts, including the _Mahayana Sūtras_. Although his personal life remains somewhat shrouded in mystery, Śāntideva's legacy speaks volumes about his dedication to spreading Buddhist teachings.
Impact and Legacy
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Śāntideva's profound impact on Buddhism cannot be overstated. His writings have had a lasting effect on Tibetan Buddhism, while also influencing the broader Buddhist tradition. The _Bodhicaryāvatāra_ remains one of the most studied texts in Mahayana Buddhism, offering insights into cultivating compassion and the path to enlightenment.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Śāntideva's enduring popularity stems from his profound understanding of human nature and his ability to articulate timeless wisdom through his writings. His emphasis on cultivating compassion, loving-kindness, and selflessness resonates deeply with people across cultures and generations. As a result, Śāntideva continues to inspire seekers of truth and wisdom, making him one of the most beloved figures in Buddhist history.
Śāntideva's rich legacy serves as a beacon for those seeking enlightenment, reminding us that true greatness lies not in power or material wealth but in cultivating compassion and understanding.
Quotes by Śāntideva
Śāntideva's insights on:
El que Todo lo Sabe ha dicho que todas las oraciones y toda la ascética, no importa por cuanto tiempo se practiquen, se cultivan en vano si el pensamiento permanece indolente o distraído.
Que se le tema a lo que produce dolor. Pero, ¿qué temor puede sentirse ante la vacuidad que aquieta todo dolor? Si se cree que el yo es algo, habrá temor aquí y allá. Si se reconoce que el yo no es nada, ¿quién va a tener miedo?.
El dolor tiene otra virtud y es que al desasosiego que lo acompaña le siguen la caída de la soberbia, la compasión hacia aquellos que vagan arrastrados por la vorágine del renacer.
Entiende que la fortuna no es sino infortunio interminable, por el desasosiego de adquirirla y guardarla y por la desolación que acompaña el perderla.
And now as long as space endures,As long as there are beings to be found,May I continue likewise to remainTo drive away the sorrows of the world.The pains and sorrows of all wandering beings—May they ripen wholly on myself.And may the virtuous company of BodhisattvasAlways bring about the happiness of beings.
When fear and suffering are disliked by me and others equally what is so special about me that I protect myself and not the other?
When happiness is liked by me and others equally, what is so special about me that I should strive after happiness only for myself?
9.Should bodhichitta come to birthIn those who suffer, chained in prisons of samsāra,In that instant they are called the children of the Blissful One,Revered by all the world, by gods and humankind.
All the joy the world containsHas come through wishing happiness for others.All the misery the world containsHas come through wanting pleasure for oneself. (8.129)
