My dear friends,

Under the second point of Geshe Chekawa's Mind Training in Seven Points, we find the following advice:

In the light of this advice, let us reflect on the profound interplay between aspirational and ultimate Bodhicitta through the lens of the wisdom of emptiness and dependent origination.

Aspirational Bodhicitta

Aspirational bodhicitta is the heartfelt desire and intention to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings. This initial spark of compassion and love motivates one to walk the path of the Bodhisattva. Aspirational bodhicitta can be likened to the resolve and promise one makes to embark on a great journey.

Wisdom of Emptiness:

From the perspective of emptiness, aspirational bodhicitta is recognized as an aspiration that lacks inherent existence. It arises dependently through conditions such as teachings, contemplation, and the suffering witnessed in the world. By understanding that the desire to help all beings does not exist independently or inherently, we can nurture this aspiration with humility and without attachment. This wisdom prevents the inflation of ego and ensures that our intentions remain pure and selfless.

Dependent Origination:

Dependent origination teaches us that aspirational bodhicitta arises from a network of causes and conditions. It is cultivated through practices like contemplating the suffering of sentient beings, developing empathy, and recognizing our interconnectedness. This understanding reinforces our commitment, as we see that our aspiration is both a natural and necessary response to the conditions of samsara, the endless cycle of ignorance and suffering.

Ultimate Bodhicitta

Ultimate bodhicitta, on the other hand, is the direct realization of emptiness, the true nature of reality. It is not merely an aspiration but a profound wisdom that perceives the absence of inherent existence in all phenomena. This realization cuts through ignorance and self-clinging, which are the roots of samsara.

Wisdom of Emptiness:

Ultimate bodhicitta is characterized by the direct perception of emptiness. This wisdom sees that all phenomena, including the self and the path, are empty of inherent existence. By meditating on this truth, the Bodhisattva dissolves the dualistic perception of self and other, leading to a profound sense of equanimity and compassion that is untainted by attachment or aversion. This is the essence of the path, as advised by Geshe Chekawa.

Dependent Origination:

Understanding dependent origination is crucial to realizing ultimate bodhicitta. It reveals that all phenomena arise in dependence upon causes and conditions and thus are empty of inherent existence. This insight dismantles the delusion of a permanent, independent self and helps the Bodhisattva see the interconnectedness of all beings. This vision fuels the compassionate activity of a Bodhisattva, as one understands that helping others is not a matter of choice but a natural expression of realizing the emptiness and interdependence of all things.

Integration of Aspirational and Ultimate Bodhicitta

To truly embody the Bodhisattva path, one must integrate both aspirational and ultimate bodhicitta:

1. Meditation on Emptiness:

   Place your meditation on the nature of the foundation of all, which is the emptiness of inherent existence. This meditation should be the essence of your path, as it transforms both your understanding and your actions.

2. Cultivating Compassion:

   While deeply understanding emptiness, continuously cultivate the compassionate aspiration to benefit all beings. Let the wisdom of emptiness enhance your compassion by freeing it from attachment and ego-clinging.

3. Living the Path:

   Engage in the six perfections (generosity, ethical discipline, patience, enthusiastic effort, concentration, and wisdom) with the awareness of their empty nature. This practice ensures that your activities are not tainted by self-centered motivations but are genuinely directed towards the liberation of all beings.

The wisdom of emptiness and dependent origination provides a profound foundation for both aspirational and ultimate bodhicitta. By following Geshe Chekawa's advice to meditate on the essence of the path, one can harmonize these two aspects, leading to a transformative journey towards enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings. This integration embodies the true spirit of the Bodhisattva, uniting deep compassion with profound wisdom.