Bodhisattva is the stage when :

The correct answer is - A person becomes next to Buddha and generates awakening and compassion

Key Points

• Bodhisattva is a key concept in Buddhism referring to an individual who is on the path to attaining enlightenment but delays their final liberation to help all sentient beings achieve freedom from suffering.
• The key characteristics of a Bodhisattva include:
  • Compassion: A Bodhisattva develops immense compassion for all beings and vows to help them achieve spiritual liberation.
  • Awakening: They cultivate wisdom and insight (Prajna) to understand the true nature of reality.
  • Altruism: They prioritize the well-being of others over their personal enlightenment.
• The Bodhisattva is considered one step below Buddha as they have not yet attained Buddhahood but are on the path to it.

Additional Information

• Stages of Spiritual Progress in Buddhism:
  • 1. Householder: A person living a worldly life, engaged in family and societal duties.
  • 2. Wanderer: A person leaves home in search of knowledge and spiritual awakening.
  • 3. Bodhisattva: A spiritually advanced individual who generates awakening and compassion while helping others achieve liberation.
  • 4. Buddha: The ultimate stage of enlightenment where one attains liberation and becomes a fully awakened being.
• Notable Bodhisattvas:
  • Avalokiteshvara: The Bodhisattva of compassion known for embodying the ideal of selfless service.
  • Manjushri: The Bodhisattva of wisdom, often depicted with a flaming sword representing the cutting away of ignorance.
  • Ksitigarbha: Known for his vow to help beings in hell and alleviate suffering.
• Significance of Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism:
  • In Mahayana Buddhism, the Bodhisattva ideal is central, emphasizing altruistic efforts to help others.
  • The Bodhisattva vow is a commitment to work tirelessly for the liberation of all beings, even at the cost of delaying one’s own enlightenment.