RAF,
Howdy from Arizona.
The Bodhisattva vows are for ONESELF, not for all beings. That's important.
One vows to oneself to save all beings, because, when we awaken, we realize
that this is already the case, already done. So, vow fulfilled.
The vow is a skilful means that one puts on oneself, skilfully. It is also a
yoke. Thus, a Yoga. Really, it's very practical. Nothing to eschew, because
it is not a promise. It is something that is fulfilled automatically when you
wake up. But there I go spilling the beans.
There's nothing wrong with the Bodhisattva vows; the only error is in
preconceptions. It's Mister Dubious who is dubious. The vows are yours, not
someone else's, and no one, nor anything else, holds you to them.
But it helps to make them. I mean, to make them helps us to wake up. If you
begin this or have begun this, especially in a formal context with teacher and
sangha, in the midst of STRONG practice, you'll see.
A pleasure to meet and talk, RAF!
Best,
--Joe
> R A Fonda <rafonda@...> wrote:
> > "Work out your OWN salvation with diligence".
> Ironic you should mention that, as it is the very reference I recently
> cited to Edgar, as supporting my view that the Bodhisattva Vow is
> presumptuous and a dubious doctrine. At any rate, my choice to eschew
> that vow is why I don't call myself a Buddhist, in spite of my sincere
> gratitude for his elucidation of the Way.
>
> Thank you for an excellent response.
>
> RAF
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