🌸3.17: The arhat and the bodhisattva

• What are the two main branches of Buddhism discussed?

  Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism
• What is the goal of a Mahayana Buddhist?

  To become a Bodhisattva by developing six perfections
• What does the term 'Arhat' mean?

  A perfected person who has overcome suffering
• What happens when someone becomes an Arhat?

  They are no longer reborn when they die
• What is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth called?

  Samsara
• How is nibbana related to becoming an Arhat?

  It is the state reached after overcoming samsara
• What is the method to achieve the goal of becoming an Arhat?

  Following and fulfilling the Eightfold Path
• Who are said to have become Arhats?

  Many of the Buddha's disciples
• What is the perspective of a Bodhisattva regarding enlightenment?

  It is bound up with the enlightenment of all beings
• What do Bodhisattvas choose to do after achieving enlightenment?

  Remain in samsara to help others
• What qualities do Bodhisattvas combine?

  Compassion and wisdom
• What is the Bodhisattva vow?

  To save innumerable sentient beings
• What are the six perfections practiced by a Bodhisattva?

  1. Generosity
  2. Morality
  3. Patience
  4. Energy
  5. Meditation
  6. Wisdom
• What is the aim of practicing generosity as a Bodhisattva?

  To be charitable and generous in all actions
• What does living ethically involve for a Bodhisattva?

  Following the moral precepts
• What is the purpose of practicing patience as a Bodhisattva?

  To be patient in all things
• Why is energy important for a Bodhisattva?

  To cultivate perseverance and keep going
• What does meditation help a Bodhisattva develop?

  Concentration and awareness
• What is the ultimate goal of obtaining wisdom for a Bodhisattva?

  To gain understanding
• What are the two types of Bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism?

  • Earthly Bodhisattvas: reborn to help others
  • Transcendent Bodhisattvas: spiritual beings beyond time and space
• What do earthly Bodhisattvas do?

  They continue to be reborn to help others
• What characterizes transcendent Bodhisattvas?

  They are spiritual beings beyond time and space
• How may transcendent Bodhisattvas assist beings?

  By appearing in forms to help others
• What is a key difference between an Arhat and a Bodhisattva?

  An Arhat seeks personal enlightenment, a Bodhisattva helps others