Meaning & Origin
In Buddhism, a Bodhisattva is an enlightened being who has achieved a deep understanding of the nature of reality but has not yet entered Nirvana. They choose to remain in the cycle of rebirth to help others attain enlightenment. In Hinduism, a Bodhisattva is a being on the path to enlightenment, often depicted as a deity who grants boons and protects the faithful.
Spiritual meaning
A being on the path to enlightenment, dedicated to helping others achieve the same.
Language details
बोधिसत्त्व
awakened, enlightened
बोधिसत्त्व
बुद्ध, बुद्धि (enlightened)
போதிசத்த்வர்
புத்த, புத்தத் (enlightened)
బోధిశేఖరే
బూధః, బూధి (enlightened)
Bodhisattva
हिंदू नाव म्हणजे Awake being, enlightened being
Bodhisattva
হিন্দু নাম যার অর্থ Awake being, enlightened being
Pronunciation & Numerology
Pronunciation
boh-dee-SAHT-vah
/boːd̪ɪsət̪və/
Lucky number
5
Lucky day
Saturday
Lucky colors
Life path
3
Lucky stone
Amber
Cultural & Spiritual notes
Bodhisattvas have had a significant impact on art, politics, and society in both Buddhist and Hindu traditions. In Buddhism, art has been dedicated to depicting the various forms of Bodhisattvas, each with their unique symbols and iconography. In Hinduism, Bodhisattvas have been incorporated into the pantheon of gods and goddesses, with temples and festivals dedicated to their honor. Politically, Bodhisattvas have been invoked by rulers as protectors and symbols of their rule, while spiritually, they have been considered as intercessors and saviors for their followers.
The concept of a Bodhisattva carries deep spiritual significance in both Buddhism and Hinduism. In Buddhism, it represents the idea of compassion and selflessness, as the Bodhisattva sacrifices their own enlightenment to help others. In Hinduism, it illustrates the idea of the divine as not only transcendent but also immanent, present and helping in the everyday lives of people. The Bodhisattva embodies the idea that enlightenment is not an individualistic pursuit but a communal one, with each person helping the other towards the ultimate goal. Additionally, Bodhisattvas serve as reminders of the potential for greatness within each person, inspiring us to strive towards our own spiritual growth.
Historical references
Avalokitesvara or Guan Yin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, is mentioned in the Mahayana scriptures as early as the 1st century CE.
1st century CE
The Bodhisattva ideal gained prominence during the Gupta Empire in India (320-550 CE), with the emergence of the Yogacara school of Buddhism which emphasized the importance of the bodhisattva's spiritual journey towards enlightenment.
320-550 CE
Notable people with this name
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