The Perfection of Vigour - Bodhicaryavatara Chapter 7

“Like someone hankering for the pleasure and fruit of love-play”

Padmavajra’s seventh talk on Shantideva’s Bodhicarayvatara is an exploration of chapter seven, the Perfection of Vigour (virya paramita). In this chapter Shantideva, makes it very clear that without virya there is no Enlightenment. He tells us what virya is, as well as what opposes virya, which include, sloth, laziness and self-contempt. He explains that virya is developed through the application of six powers: desire; pride; delight; letting go; dedication; and self-mastery. “Having...

A Bodhisattva's Mindfulness - Bodhicaryavatara Chapter 5

‘One should speak confident, measured words, clear in meaning, delighting the mind, pleasing to the ear, soft and slow, and stemming from love’

In his fifth talk devoted to the Bodhicaryavatara, Padmavajra explores chapter five ‘The Guarding of Total Awareness’. In this chapter Shantideva makes vividly clear the importance of mindfulness and awareness of purpose in the Bodhisattvas life. Shantideva tells us about the centrality and power of the mind and the need for scrupulous attention to every detail of our lives.

His discussion...

Going For Refuge: The basis of Everything

This talk by Padmavajra is offered especially to men who have asked for ordination into the Triratna Buddhist Order. It was given in the shrine room on Monday April 13th 2020.

In this talk Padmavajra addresses how men can continue their ordination training during this time of lockdown, when it is not possible to attend retreats at Padmaloka. He draws particular attention to the Buddha’s vision of existence and his longing for escape. He also explores the existential act of Going for...

Bodhicaryavatara Chapter 2: Giving Ourselves Completely to the Buddhas

“And I give myself to the Conquerors completely, and to their sons. Take possession of me Sublime Beings. In devotion I become your servant”.

In his second talk on the Bodhicaryavatara, Padmavajra tells us how Shantideva takes to heart, ever more firmly, the Bodhicitta, through his lavish performance of puja and a searing confession of faults. The talk was given in the shrine room on the weekly Padmaloka day retreat. It was given in honour of the anniversary of Sangharakshita’s founding of...