• act fast

    Act Fast

    Verse 35 of the 37 Verses of a Bodhisattva tells us when afflictions arise, act fast. It reads: Habitual afflictions are hard to reverse with an antidote. So it is a practice of a bodhisattva to destroy afflictions, such as attachment and others, as soon as…

  • speak with heart

    Speak With Heart

    The 34th verse of the 37 Verses of a Bodhisattva implores us to speak with heart. It says, Using harsh words disturbs the minds of others and causes the character of bodhisattvas to degenerate. Therefore, it is the practice of bodhisattvas to abandon abuse directed at…

  • Verse 33: Don’t Believe the Hype

    Verse 33 of the 37 Verses of a Bodhisattva teaches us: don’t believe the hype. It reads, Reward and respect cause us to quarrelAnd make hearing, thinking and meditation decline.For this reason give up attachment toThe households of friends, relations and benefactors—This is the practice of…

  • don't diminish others

    Verse 32: Don’t Diminish Others

    Verse 32 of the 37 Verses of a Bodhisattva implores us: don’t diminish others. It reads, If through the influence of disturbing emotionsYou point out the faults of another Bodhisattva,You yourself are diminished, so don’t mention the faultsOf those who have entered the Great Vehicle—This is…

  • Verse 31: Know Your Faults

    Verse 31 of the 37 Verses of a Bodhisattva encourages each of us to know our faults. It reads, If you don’t examine your own errors,You may look like a practitioner but not act as one.Therefore, always examining your own errors,Rid yourself of them—This is the…

  • cultivate wisdom and skill

    Cultivate Wisdom and Skill

    Verse 30 of the 37 Verses of a Bodhisattva encourages us to cultivate wisdom and skill. It reads, Without wisdom, the five perfections Are not enough to attain full awakening. Cultivate wisdom and skill Free from the three domains- this is the practice of a bodhisattva.…

  • free your mind

    Free Your Mind

    Verse 29 of the 37 Verses of a Bodhisattva teaches how we can free our mind. It reads, Understanding that emotional reactions are dismantled By insight supported by stillness, Cultivate meditative stability that passes right by The four formless states- this is the practice of a…