St. Peter Healing the Crippled Beggar
Matthias Gerung, 1530

My dear friends,

In the Christian scriptures, the narrative of Acts 3:1-10 and Acts 4:5-12 exemplifies the transformative power of faith and compassion, principles that are also characteristic of the Bodhisattva path in Buddhist tradition. These passages, describing the healing of a lame man by Peter and John at the Temple gate called Beautiful and the subsequent trial before the Sanhedrin, offer profound lessons on the nature of true spiritual practice and the expression of compassionate action.

In Acts 3, Peter and John encounter a man lame from birth, who seeks alms at the temple gate. Instead of offering money, Peter says, "Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." This act of healing is significant not only for the miracle itself but for the manner in which it is performed. From the perspective of the Bodhisattva path, this reflects the practice of giving not merely material goods but offering what is of ultimate benefit to others — in this case, healing and spiritual liberation.

The spontaneous and selfless action of Peter embodies the Bodhisattva ideal of skillful means (upaya-kaushalya), where the method of helping beings is adapted to their immediate needs. This story illustrates the potential for every interaction to be a conduit for the profound compassion and wisdom that seeks to alleviate suffering in its most profound forms. The joy and astonishment of the healed man, who praises God, further echoes the joy of Dharma practice, reflecting the transformative impact of true compassion on both receiver and giver.

Following the healing, Peter and John are brought before the Sanhedrin to account for their actions. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, speaks boldly of Jesus Christ as "the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner." Here, Peter asserts that salvation comes not through the traditional structures of power and authority but through the path Jesus has laid — a theme that corresponds with the Buddhist teaching of finding liberation through direct understanding of the Dharma rather than through external rituals or dogmas.

From the Bodhisattva viewpoint, Peter's fearless declaration before the elders can be seen as a demonstration of the perfection of courage (virya), one of the six paramitas (perfections) a Bodhisattva cultivates. His unwavering stand for his spiritual truth, despite the risk of persecution, aligns with the Bodhisattva's commitment to truth and righteousness, irrespective of personal consequences. This exemplifies the strength required to uphold Dharma in challenging circumstances, driven by a profound commitment to the welfare of all beings.

Both narratives underscore a core principle shared between Christian and Buddhist teachings: the power of faith and compassion to enact profound change. For a Bodhisattva, the story of Peter and John at the Temple gate highlights the essence of the path — to serve others selflessly, using wisdom and compassion in ways that most benefit those in suffering. Moreover, Peter’s defense before the Sanhedrin illustrates the importance of wisdom and courageous speech in advocating for truth and justice.

Spiritual practitioners on the Bodhisattva path are encouraged to develop these qualities: to act with deep compassion, to use wisdom in our interactions, and to maintain integrity and courage in the face of adversity. These acts are not only miracles of faith but are profound practices of spiritual liberation, reflecting the universal call to awaken the heart of compassion within each of us, for the benefit of all beings.