Jesus' hand reaches out to the children
Washington National Cathedral

My dear friends,

In Ephesians 6:10-20, we find a powerful exhortation to arm ourselves spiritually in order to stand against the forces of evil. From the viewpoint of the Bodhisattva path, we can interpret these teachings by understanding "putting on the whole armor of God" as a metaphor for the cultivation of inner virtues and the transformation of our minds, enabling us to be vessels of compassion and wisdom in a world filled with suffering.

In these words, the Apostle Paul reminds us that our true battle is not against other human beings but against the deeper, more insidious forces that perpetuate ignorance, hatred, and suffering. From the perspective of the Bodhisattva path, this battle is a reflection of the inner struggle against the kleshas – afflictive emotions like anger, greed, and delusion. By developing the strength of Bodhicitta, the awakened heart, we arm ourselves with the power to overcome these inner demons and extend compassion to all beings.

To "stand firm" in the face of adversity is to maintain our commitment to the path of virtue and wisdom, no matter the challenges we face. This steadfastness is not born from rigid dogma but from a deep, unwavering compassion that seeks the liberation of all beings. Followers of the Bodhisattva path take up the armor of patience, mindfulness, and wisdom, knowing that these are our true defenses against the sufferings of samsara.

The belt of truth represents the commitment to honesty and integrity, essential qualities on the Bodhisattva path. Truth in this context is not merely the absence of lies but the profound recognition of the nature of reality—emptiness and interdependence. The breastplate of righteousness symbolizes the ethical discipline that protects our hearts from the poisons of selfishness and harm. By embodying these virtues, we safeguard our spiritual journey and serve as a refuge for others.

The sandals of peace remind us to walk the path of nonviolence and reconciliation. As Bodhisattvas, we are called to bring peace into every step we take, whether through our thoughts, words, or actions. This peace is not a passive state but an active, dynamic force that seeks to heal and unite. By spreading the gospel of peace, we contribute to the alleviation of suffering and the creation of a harmonious world.

Faith, in the Bodhisattva tradition, is the confidence in the boundless potential for awakening within all beings. The shield of faith protects us from the arrows of doubt and despair that can arise on the spiritual path. This faith is not blind belief but a deep trust in the transformative power of wisdom and compassion. It enables us to persevere through difficulties and maintain our commitment to the liberation of all sentient beings.

The helmet of salvation symbolizes the protection offered by wisdom—the realization of emptiness and the true nature of reality. This wisdom safeguards us from the delusions that cause suffering. The sword of the Spirit, the word of God, represents the discerning insight that cuts through ignorance and confusion. As Bodhisattvas, we wield this sword not to harm, but to liberate, using the teachings of the Dharma to bring clarity and enlightenment to ourselves and others.

Prayer, in the context of the Bodhisattva path, can be understood as the cultivation of pure intention and the dedication of our actions to the benefit of all beings. To "pray in the Spirit" is to align our hearts with the boundless compassion and wisdom of the awakened mind, continually dedicating our efforts to the welfare of others. By remaining alert and persevering in our spiritual practice, we become a source of strength and support for the entire community of spiritual seekers.

Here, the Apostle Paul seeks prayers for boldness in proclaiming the gospel, despite his chains. As followers of the Bodhisattva path, we too may face obstacles and challenges in our efforts to share the Dharma and work for the liberation of all beings. Yet, like Paul, we can draw strength from the collective prayers and aspirations of the spiritual community. By speaking and acting with courage, we fulfill our vow to bring all beings to the shore of enlightenment.

In conclusion, the spiritual armor described in Ephesians is not so different from the virtues cultivated on the Bodhisattva path. By donning this armor, we prepare ourselves to meet the challenges of the world with wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith. Let us continue to walk this path together, supporting one another in our journey toward the ultimate liberation of all sentient beings.