Bodhisattvas: The Selfless Heroes of Buddhism

Have you ever thought about what makes someone a true spiritual superhero? In Buddhism, this title goes to the Bodhisattva—being full of mercy, they choose to postpone their own ultimate knowledge to help others find it first.

Looks great, don't you think? Because it is. In this article, we are diving into the meaning of Bodhisattva, who takes a bodhisattva vow to someone, and why these kind figures—such as Tara Bodhisattva, Gunan, and Maitreya—become such powerful symbols of love and spiritual worlds.

Therefore, grab your cup of tea or settle in your focus pillow, and let's look at the world of Bodhisattva together.

What exactly is a Bodhisattva?

The word “Bodhisattva” comes from two Sanskrit words, where Bodhi means enlightenment or awakening and  Sattva means being or essence

Together, Bodhisattva means “an enlightened being” or “one who is on the path to awakening.” 

But wait—it's not just about being enlightened. The real magic lies in that awakening. Instead of disappearing into Nirvana (the Buddhist version of total peace), a Bodhisattva says, "Not yet—I haven't got to work." They follow all living beings to help across the endless cycle of pain, ignorance, and rebirth.

Therefore, if you are asking, "What does the right Bodhisattva mean?" - This is about the final compassion, immense patience, and radical love for others.

The Bodhisattva Vow: Compassion in Action

Now here’s where it gets really inspiring. Anyone can say they care about others, but a bodhisattva goes a step further—they take a formal vow, promising:

• To free all beings from suffering
  
• To cultivate wisdom and overcome personal obstacles
  
• To never stop practicing until everyone is enlightened
  

One traditional version of the vow goes like this:

“Beings are numberless; I vow to free them.
Delusions are inexhaustible; I vow to end them.
Dharma gates are boundless; I vow to enter them.
The Buddha way is unsurpassable; I vow to become it.”

This is not just poetry—it is a commitment to help others grow and change.

And yes, you can also take this fast, even if you are starting your journey. It is the beauty of the Bodhisattva path—it is open to all those who walk with compassion.

Across different schools of Buddhism—especially Mahayana—many Bodhisattvas are revered like spiritual guides or divine friends. They show us that awakening can wear many faces. Let's meet some of them, shall we?

Tara Bodhisattva: The Swift Saviouress

If there’s one bodhisattva who’s always ready to leap into action, it’s Tara. She’s especially cherished in Tibetan Buddhism and often called the “Mother of All Buddhas.”

There are 21 forms of Tara, but the most famous are:

• Green Tara: The protector, quick to remove fears and obstacles
  
• White Tara: The healer, known for long life and inner peace
  

Click here to explore the collection of our thangkas along with the above-provided Green Tara Thangka. 

Think of Tara Bodhisattva as your spiritual emergency responder. She’s fierce, loving, and always alert. 

Her mantra? “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha,” a chant for courage, safety, and boundless support.

Guanyin Bodhisattva: The Goddess of Mercy

You can learn about Guanyin as the softest, gentlest, and most beloved figure in East Asian Buddhism. It is the Chinese version of Avalokiteshvara, who is the Bodhisattva of infinite compassion.

Guanyin literally means "who listens to the cries of the world," and that says everything. Often reflects on the vase of sweet nectar and a willow branch, symbolizing the healing and flexibility. Despite any kind of suffering, Guanyin listens to all of it. 

Maitreya Bodhisattva: The Buddha to Come

Maitreya isn’t just another bodhisattva—he’s the future Buddha, prophesied to appear when the teachings of the current age have faded.

Right now, he resides in a heavenly realm called Tushita, preparing to descend to Earth one day to rekindle the Dharma. Until then, he reminds us of hope, joy, and spiritual rebirth.

You’ll often find Maitreya portrayed in a relaxed seated pose, feet flat on the ground, ready to rise. Sometimes he's the chubby, smiling figure known as the Laughing Buddha (especially in Chinese temples).

Can Anyone Become a Bodhisattva?

You do not need to wear robes or stay in the monastery. The Bodhisattva path is about the mentality and intentions. It is about the completion of each moment with a deep desire to help others awakened with mercy and courage and to awaken with its full potential.

The path involves practicing six perfections (pāramitās):

• Generosity (Dana)—Giving without expecting return
  
• Ethical Conduct (Śīla)—Living with integrity
  
• Patience (Kṣānti) – Staying calm amid chaos
  
• Joyful Effort (Vīrya) – Practicing with energy and enthusiasm
  
• Meditation (Dhyāna)—Cultivating inner peace
  
• Wisdom (Prajñā)—Seeing things as they truly are
  

Every act of compassion, every honest conversation, every time you choose kindness—you take a step closer to the bodhisattva way.

1. What does bodhisattva mean in simple words?

A bodhisattva is someone who’s on the path to enlightenment but chooses to help others first, instead of escaping suffering for themselves.

2. Can anyone take the Bodhisattva vow?

Yes! Anyone with sincere intention can take the bodhisattva vow, whether you’re a layperson, monk, or beginner.

3. Who are the most famous bodhisattvas?

Tara, Guanyin, and Maitreya Bodhisattva are among the most well-known and widely worshipped.

4. What’s the Bodhi tree?

It’s a symbolic concept representing the nourishing, sheltering nature of bodhisattvas—like a tree that gives endlessly to all beings.

5. Is the Laughing Buddha Maitreya?

Yes, in Chinese culture, the Laughing Buddha is believed to be an early incarnation of Maitreya Bodhisattva, the future Buddha.

In a world that is often split and disconnected, the Bodhisattva ideal is more relevant than ever. Whether it is Guanin's compassion, the fearlessness of Tara, or the hope of Maitreya, these enlightened creatures show us how to live with heart and purpose.

Want to bring the Bodhisattva soul into your daily life? Start small: Help a stranger, forgive more, or just stop and listen when someone needs support. This is the beginning of your own Bodhisattva trip.

Look no further than authentic, master-quality, and handmade pieces from Buddha's Art of Healing. We will help connect you to Mahakala's fierce compassion and protection.

Follow us on Instagram and YouTube for more information on traditional arts and knowledge.