Executive Briefing: The Infinite Vow
Unlike the Theravāda pursuit of individual Arhatship, Mahāyāna Buddhism centers upon the Bodhisattva—an enlightened being who consciously postpones ultimate entry into Nirvana until every sentient being across the multiverse is liberated.
1. Shantideva’s Bodhicaryāvatāra: Exchanging Self and Other
8th-century Nalanda master Shantideva articulated the practice of Parātmaparivartana (equalizing and exchanging self and other): *”May I be a protector for those without protection, a guide for travelers, a bridge for those who wish to cross.”*
2. References
- Shantideva. (c. 700). The Way of the Bodhisattva (Bodhicaryavatara). Shambhala.