“I vow to pay homage to all the Buddhas.” Samantabhadra

“The worst thing that we can do is deny other people the possibility of change.” Guo Gu

In the Avatamsaka or Flower Ornament Sutra, in what has been called The Perfect Teaching, Samantabhadra Bodhisattva emphasizes interdependence and the infinite perspectives inherent in reality, guiding us away from dualistic and self-centered ways of seeing other people and the world. Recognizing the potential Buddha in everyone not only transforms our relationships but also reshapes our understanding of the world, rooting us in compassion and wisdom. In his teaching, Guo Gu offers us a way to begin this practice and set ourselves on the path to awakening.

The Ten Great Vows of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, outlined in the Avatamsaka Sutra, are profound principles for those on the path to Buddhahood. These vows represent a complete path of dedication, compassion, and commitment to benefiting all beings. They provide a framework for practice that not only transforms the self but also brings wisdom and compassion into the world.

The Ten Great Vows of Samantabhadra

1. To pay homage to all the Buddhas
2. To glorify the qualities of all the Tathagatas
3. To make ample offerings to all the Buddhas
4. To confess and repent of all one's misdeeds
5. To rejoice in the merits of others
6. To always request the preaching of the Dharma
7. To entreat enlightened beings to remain in the world
8. To always study the teachings of the Buddha
9. To always respond to sentient beings according to their various needs
10. To dedicate all merits to sentient beings that they may achieve Buddhahood.

Join the Tallahassee Chan Center online for live meditations and discussion Monday through Thursday, at 7:30 PM EST. Learn more at https://tallahasseechan.org/events/.