BODHICITTA Meaning and
Definition
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Bodhicitta is a Sanskrit term commonly used in Buddhist philosophy and teachings. The word is derived from "bodhi," meaning awakening or enlightenment, and "citta," meaning mind or heart. Thus, bodhicitta can be understood as the "mind/heart of awakening" or the "awakened heart."
Bodhicitta represents the altruistic intention or aspiration for enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings. It is a profound compassion and love that transcends self-interest and extends to all beings, seeking to relieve their suffering and guide them towards awakening. Bodhicitta embodies the idea of developing the qualities of compassion, wisdom, and skillful means to liberate oneself and others from the cycle of suffering and ignorance.
Bodhicitta is central to the Mahayana Buddhist tradition, where it is considered a crucial component of the path to awakening. It guides practitioners towards engaging in acts of kindness, generosity, and ethical behavior to benefit all beings. Cultivating bodhicitta involves developing an attitude of selflessness, humility, and genuine concern for others' well-being. It encompasses both the aspiration to attain enlightenment for oneself and the commitment to work tirelessly for the enlightenment of all beings.
Ultimately, bodhicitta is not simply an intellectual understanding but an embodied, compassionate way of being in the world. It is a transformative force that permeates every aspect of one's life, leading to profound spiritual growth and the fulfillment of the ultimate altruistic aim – the enlightenment of all sentient beings.
Etymology of BODHICITTA
The word "bodhicitta" originates from Sanskrit, where it is composed of two components - "bodhi" and "citta".
1. "Bodhi": This term means "awakening", "enlightenment", or "wisdom" in Sanskrit. It is derived from the root word "budh", which conveys the idea of waking up or understanding. "Bodhi" is used in various Buddhist contexts to refer to the supreme and awakened state of consciousness, where one obtains true insight and understanding.
2. "Citta": This term means "mind" or "consciousness" in Sanskrit. It refers to the faculty of thought, perception, and awareness.
Therefore, "bodhicitta" combines these components to form a compound word that can be translated as "awakening mind", "enlightened heart", or "mind of enlightenment".
