Bodhisattva

/ˌboʊdɪˈsɑːtvə/ noun

Definition

In Buddhism, a person who has achieved enlightenment but delays entering nirvana to help other people reach spiritual liberation.

Etymology

From Sanskrit 'bodhi' (awakening) and 'sattva' (being or essence), originating in Mahayana Buddhism around the 1st century CE. The concept evolved to represent the ideal of compassionate service in Buddhist philosophy.

Kelly Says

Bodhisattvas are basically the superheroes of Buddhism—they have the power to escape suffering but choose to stay behind to rescue everyone else, which is why they're some of the most beloved figures in Buddhist art and culture across Asia.

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