The Bodhisattva Vow: A Sourcebook : Book Review

"The Bodhisattva Vow" by Chögyam Trungpa is a profound and enlightening book that delves into the practice of the Bodhisattva path in Mahayana Buddhism. Trungpa, a renowned Tibetan Buddhist teacher, provides deep insights and practical guidance for those seeking to embark on the path of compassion and awakening.

Trungpa begins by explaining the core concept of the Bodhisattva vow, which is the commitment to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings. He skillfully weaves together ancient Buddhist teachings with his own modern perspective, making the concepts accessible and applicable to contemporary readers.

Throughout the book, Trungpa emphasizes the importance of selflessness and compassion on the Bodhisattva path. He explores the challenges and obstacles that one may encounter on this path and offers valuable strategies for overcoming them. Trungpa's teachings are intellectually stimulating and profoundly inspiring, urging readers to cultivate genuine kindness and understanding towards others.

In the pursuit of the Bodhisattva ideal, Trungpa elucidates the significance of meditation and mindfulness. He provides practical instructions and techniques for cultivating these qualities, enabling readers to apply them in their everyday lives. Trungpa's teachings are rooted in his personal experience, and his profound wisdom shines through his writing.

"The Bodhisattva Vow" is a transformative read that challenges readers to examine their motivations and actions. Whether you are a Buddhist practitioner or simply someone interested in personal growth and spiritual development, this book offers profound insights and practical guidance to help you embark on the path of the Bodhisattva and make a meaningful impact in the world. It invites readers to go beyond their self-centered perspectives and embrace the interconnectedness of all beings.

What are readers saying?

"The Bodhisattva Vow" by Chögyam Trungpa has received a range of reviews from readers. This book delves into the concept of the Bodhisattva vow, which entails a commitment to working towards the enlightenment of all beings. Here is a synopsis of the feedback for this book:

1. Positive Reviews: Some readers found "The Bodhisattva Vow" to be a profound and inspiring read. They commended Trungpa for his ability to explain intricate Buddhist concepts in a clear and accessible manner. Many readers felt that the book deepened their understanding of the Bodhisattva path and offered practical guidance for cultivating compassion and mindfulness. Trungpa's personal stories and examples resonated with these readers, making the book engaging and thought-provoking.

2. Critical Reviews: Conversely, some readers found the teachings in "The Bodhisattva Vow" repetitive and challenging to grasp. They felt that Trungpa's writing style was dense and excessively intellectual, making it difficult to connect with the material. Additionally, some readers criticized the lack of practical applications of the Bodhisattva vow in daily life, leading to disappointment.

3. Challenging Language: Reviewers noted that the concepts discussed in this book can be demanding to understand, particularly for those new to Buddhism. They suggested that readers should possess some background knowledge of Buddhist philosophy in order to fully appreciate Trungpa's teachings.

4. Spiritual Depth: Several readers appreciated the profound spiritual insights presented in "The Bodhisattva Vow." They found the book encouraged self-reflection and offered valuable wisdom for individuals on a spiritual path. These readers praised Trungpa's ability to blend traditional Buddhist teachings with contemporary relevance.

BodhisattvaVow SpiritualReading EnlightenmentJourney