Bodhisattva Ethics: Compassion and Wisdom

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the ethics of the Bodhisattva by focusing on the analysis of two essential virtues: compassion and wisdom, which are the core principles of practice in Mahayana Buddhism. This study employs qualitative analysis to understand the roles and significance of these virtues in promoting and developing the behavior of Bodhisattvas. It was found that compassion serves as the primary motivation that encourages Bodhisattvas to express kindness, empathy, and unconditional willingness to help all sentient beings in every circumstance. Meanwhile, wisdom enables Bodhisattvas to gain profound insight into the nature of suffering and its causes, as well as to select appropriate and effective methods for providing assistance. The integration of compassion and wisdom constitutes a fundamental knowledge base that supports the practical development of Bodhisattva ethics and reinforces the stability of the path toward enlightenment. The findings suggest that the harmonious combination of these two virtues can be applied in daily life and social contexts to promote love, understanding, and mutual aid sustainably and effectively for the benefit of all beings in the future.