The Dalai Lama's Bodhisattva Vows

Be inspired by these Bodhisattva vows, which are frequently recited by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Originally written by Shantideva, a sixth-century sage, this short track can be used as a quick reminder to return to the Bodhisattva practice of contributing to ending the suffering of all beings.

Transcript

These are the bodhisattva vows that the Dalai Lama regularly recites.

These vows are based on the words of the beloved 6th century sage Shantideva.

May I be a guard for those who need protection,

A guide for those on the path,

A boat,

A raft,

A bridge for those who wish to cross the flood.

May I be a lamp in the darkness,

A resting place for the weary,

A healing medicine for all who are sick,

A vase of plenty,

A tree of miracles,

And for the boundless multitudes of living beings,

May I bring sustenance and awakening,

Enduring like the earth and sky until all beings are freed from sorrow and all are awakened.

Reviews

Dalai Lama’s vows are inspiringly.✨🙏🏼💜✨

Thank you for these centering words before a busy day. 💕🙏

A lovely prayer. 🙏

🙏🏾 2025

This is so beautiful! Thank you very much for sharing it I've never heard this before. Love and blessings to you

I really love how you read this. I can really feel the meaning in these words. Thank you!