The Meaning of Mahayana

Shenten Lamrim

If wisdom is unsurpassed, that is Mahayana.

This means the following qualities must be present:

great conception,

great achievement,

great wisdom,

great zeal,

great skillful means,

great pure achievement, and

great activity.

With all these qualities, the vehicle is called “Mahayana.”

The meaning of each is as follows:

• If one focuses on the twelve branches of bodhicitta, it is great conception.

• If one accomplishes the two benefits, it is great accomplishment.

• If one realizes both kinds of selflessness, it is great wisdom.

• If one perseveres tirelessly through countless eons, it is great zeal.

• If one remains undefiled by afflictions despite being born in samsara, it is great

skillful means.

• If one acquires qualities such as strength and fearlessness, it is great pure achievement.

• If one manifests nirvana and enlightenment, for as long as samsara remains, it is great activity.

……..

The Clear Lamp of Teachings, the Graded Path to Enlightenment: Steps of Contemplation from Various Scriptures in the Bon Tradition

Written by Maha Pandita Jetsun Tsultrim Tenpe Gyaltshen

Translated from Tibetan by Kalsang Dawa