What is enlightenment? In Mahayana Buddhism

Mahayana Buddhist enlightenment (i.e., Bodhisattva enlightenment) is broadly defined as a state of being where two elements are inseparably united: “Understanding emptiness (kuu) to release the mind's bonds” + “Using that freedom for the salvation of all beings.”

The Path to Enlightenment in Mahayana Buddhism

1. First, recognize reality (understanding suffering)

“The mind is tossed about by ‘I want this,’ 'I want to protect that,‘ 'I dislike this.’”
“Life doesn't go as planned.”
“I don't even know what happiness fundamentally is.”

Here, one sees through that “Suffering won't end just by changing others or the environment.”

2. Bodhicitta is activated (direction is set)

This is the hallmark of Mahayana.

If others are suffering, it's impossible for only oneself to attain true happiness. Therefore, I resolve to aim for the purpose of saving and guiding all suffering beings (all living creatures).

This is the starting point of “enlightenment.”

3. Laying the Foundation for Practice (Precepts, Meditation, Wisdom)

This remains the fundamental framework even in Mahayana.

Precepts (Kai): Reduce transgressions (reduce the noise of regret and guilt)
Meditation (Zenjō): Calming the mind (concentration, observation)
Wisdom (Chie): Changing perspective (letting go of attachments)

It's less about knowledge and more about how understanding transforms your mindset (the foundation of the mind).

4. Understanding Emptiness (Kū) (Prajñā = The Core of Enlightenment)

This is the center of Mahayana enlightenment.

What is “emptiness”?

It means there are no fixed, permanent entities. Not nothingness, but that everything exists in momentary interdependence.

For example:

・There is no fixed “I”; it changes every second based on conditions
・ “This person is like this” also changes with situation and perspective
*・“Success/failure” also shifts meaning depending on context

Experiencing this directly weakens:

✓ Attachment (“It must be this way”)
✓ Aversion (I can't forgive)
✓ Fear (I'm afraid of losing)

Such suffering-inducing emotions weaken.

5. Compassion Becomes “Action” (This is Mahayana)

Understanding emptiness makes you kinder to others.

Because you truly grasp:
“The other person is shaped by conditions”
“I am shaped by conditions too.”

From there, Mahayana moves toward:
Unraveling the structure of suffering rather than judging others
Sharing your own stability with those around you

6. Realizing Compassion Through the Six Paramitas

This is the super famous Mahayana practice.

1. Generosity: Giving (material goods, peace of mind, wisdom)
2. Moral Discipline: Rules to avoid self-destruction
3. Patience: Not merely endurance, but the power to refrain from reaction
4. Diligence: The energy to persevere
5. Meditation: Calming the mind
6. Wisdom: The insight into emptiness

Enlightenment is endless as long as the world progresses and changes. This is because it includes the attitude of pursuing the truth of the world.
Therefore, it is not a fixed state of “having become this,” but something that permeates one's character and actions.

7. Progressing Through the Bodhisattva Stages (Ten Grounds)

Mahayana Buddhism views enlightenment not as a single, instant achievement but as a progressive path.

* The closer one approaches enlightenment, the steadier they become
* Less susceptible to being overwhelmed by anger or anxiety
* Increasing capacity to save others (through words and creating supportive environments)

This is the path ultimately leading to the enlightenment of a Buddha.

Summary: Mahayana Enlightenment is “Two Perfections”

Mahayana enlightenment aims for a state where attachments dissolve and compassion flows naturally.

Wisdom = Understanding emptiness and becoming free
Compassion = Using that freedom to lighten the world

This set is the completed form of Mahayana enlightenment.