REVIEW: A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life - Shantideva

This book can be taken in two different ways - either as a poetic historical explanation of how one human set out on his path to right the wrongs and become a Bodhisattva - or it can be taken as a series of advice and guidelines for others on that same path, or those hoping to reach that path.

If taking the former attitude, one can learn attitudes and techniques that might help us in our regular life with specific problems, feel grateful tha someone managed to get so far, and find relief that at least one being on this planet was intent on improving sufficiently to help many of us. One can also relate to various viewpoints and attitudes encountered along the track.

If taking it as advice or a guideline, one needs to read the book several different ways. Firstly, as a book. Secondly, as separate verses. Thirdly as separate chapters. And fourthly, as an overall reference to problems like to occur and for general inspiration.

I am not going to comment further until I have read the book at least twice more, having just read it for a second time and not yet knowing it well enough.