Buddhist Ethics and the Bodhisattva Path: Santideva on Virtue and Well-Being

The 8th-century Mahayana Buddhist classic, the Guide to the Practices of Awakening (Bodhicaryavatara), by Santideva, has been a source of philosophical inspiration in the Indian and Tibetan traditions for over a thousand years. This book by Stephen Harris offers a philosophical exploration of the compassionate bodhisattva, who vows to liberate the entire universe from suffering. It provides studies of the bodhisattva virtues of generosity, patience, compassion, and wisdom and demonstrates how Santideva employs reasoning to cultivate moral character. It is the first book-length English language philosophical study of the text and will be essential reading for students and scholars of Buddhist ethics, as well as anyone interested in intercultural ethics and the philosophy of well-being.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The 8th-century Mahayana Buddhist classic, the Guide to the Practices of Awakening (Bodhicaryavatara), penned by Santideva, has been a source of philosophical inspiration in the Indian and Tibetan traditions for over a thousand years. In this comprehensive guide, Stephen Harris takes us on a philosophical exploration of Santideva's masterpiece, introducing us to his understanding of the compassionate bodhisattva, who vows to liberate the entire universe from suffering.

Individual chapters delve into the bodhisattva virtues of generosity, patience, compassion, and wisdom, illustrating their role in Santideva's account of well-being and moral development. Harris also provides in-depth analysis of many of Santideva's most influential arguments, showcasing how he employs reasoning as a method to cultivate moral character. As the first book-length English language philosophical study of Santideva's most influential text, this work will be an essential resource for students and scholars of Buddhist ethics, as well as for anyone interested in intercultural ethics and the philosophy of well-being.

The Guide to the Practices of Awakening offers a profound exploration of the path to enlightenment, emphasizing the importance of compassion and moral development in achieving ultimate liberation. Through his meticulous analysis and interpretation, Harris provides a valuable contribution to the study of Buddhist ethics and philosophy, offering insights that will resonate with readers for generations to come.

Weight: 338g
Dimension: 138 x 215 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350379534