The Ten Vows of Samantabhadra

Here's a different little post.

Above is Samantabhadra (普賢, the full extension of compassion) Bodhisattva, also known as the Bodhisattva of Universal Good. The expression on the above image of the bodhisattva's face changes dramatically depending on the focus point. Or is it just me?

Samantabhadra is often depicted riding an elephant, because they are devoted to great action and riding an elephant was the elite vehicle of the ancient world. See below for a very different rendering by the wonderful contemporary artist, Mayumi Oda.

What follows are the Ten Great Vows of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva from the Flower Ornament Sutra (華嚴經). I've long been inspired by them and recently translated them from the Chinese:

1. To show reverence to all buddhas

2. To sing the praise of the tathagatas

3. To extensively practice making offerings

4. To confess and do repentance for all karmic hindrances

5. To rejoice in other's positive achievements and virtues

6. To ask for the turning of the dharma wheel

7. To ask Buddhas to live in the world

8. To always accord with Buddha training

9. To always accord with living beings

10. To universally dedicate all merit