The Bodhicaryavatara (Oxford World's Classics)
by Santideva
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Book Summary Information
Author: SantidevaEditor: Paul Williams
Translator: Kate Crosby
Translator: Andrew Skilton
Edition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2008-06-07
ISBN: 0199540438
Number of pages: 240
Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
Book Reviews of The Bodhicaryavatara (Oxford World's Classics)
Book Review: Very informative and well laid out
Summary: 5 Stars
While I have read quite a bit of spiritual books, the concept of a Bohdisattva was of particular interest to me. I purchased this book along with the Vesna & B. Alan Wallace version. I started with the Wallace one but was a bit put off with the way the poem was presented. It was a bit too conversational and not too poetic in the language used (but well done none the less). SO, I put that down and gave this one a try and was pleased with the depth of preface given to the poem. It not only tells you a bit about the author, but more importantly it points out other translations that exist and their differences and contradictions in structure.
Another helpful feature for those interested in more than just saying that you have read the Bodhicaryavatara is the section explaining the pronunciations of the special letters used throughout the book. This gave the reader more than just words, it actually helps one to better understand and pronounce the original Sanskrit words.
Like any great book, you can't just read it once! When I reached the end of the poem I found the extensive notes that go with each chapter. Although the introduction clearly explains that these notes are there, I was too eager to get on with the show to research it first. Now, I am re-reading the book, or better said, studying the poem with the intention to better understand the Bodhicaryavatara.
I recommend this book for anyone who is truly interested in having an in-depth understanding of this part of Mahayana Buddhist poetry. The practice of compassion in todays world is quite challenging, this book lets the reader know that it was just as challenging 13 centuries ago.
Summary of The Bodhicaryavatara (Oxford World's Classics)
Written in India in the early 8th century AD, 'S=antideva's Bodhicary=avat=ara addresses the profound desire to become a Buddha and rescue all beings from suffering. The person who acts upon such a desire is a Bodhisattva. 'S=antideva not only makes plain what the Bodhisattva must do and become, he also invokes the powerful feelings of aspiration that underlie such a commitment, employing language which has inspired Buddists ever since it first appeared. Indeed, his book has long been regarded as one of the most popular accounts of the Buddhist's spiritual path. Important as a manual of training among Mah=ay=ana Buddhists, especially in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, this text continues to be used as the basis for teaching by modern Buddhist teachers. This new translation from the original language provides detailed annotations explaining allusions and technical references. Also, the Introduction both serve to locate 'S=antideva's work in its proper context, and for the first time explain its structure.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.
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