Expert: Bodhicitta - 7/18/2005

Question
Hello Bodhicitta,

I have gradually introduced myself to buddhist readings and lifestyle. I am especially taken with meditation and finding inner peace. I am very interested to know how "compassion" (for others)is spelt out in Tibetan Buddhism. I have a certain faccination with Tibet and a love for all creatures. I would like to get this tattood onto my back. Is it possibly not this simple? I was wandering if preferably you could show me a symbol for compassion if there is one? I would really appreciate your help. Many thankyou's. Sarah  

Answer
Hi Sarah
Thanks for your message.

I dont pretend to  be an expert in Tibetan language or culture so please forgive me if I don't attempt a reply on your first two questions. Tibetan Buddhism is a living
tradition of Buddhism including all the different vehicles and aspects - and I teach Buddhism from this excellent perspective. For Westerners I tend to do it in English though.In fact I am a great advocate of being a Buddhist in our own culture. So why not tatoo something in English?
Or maybe even Sanskrit - Sanskrit is the sacred language of the Buddha from India. Having said that the mantra symbol "Hri" is associated with compassion - but Im not able to draw it here...maybe you would find it on the web somewhere!

I wish you well in your journey . Compassion for all beings ia  a worthy aim balanced with wisdom it is perfection.

Bodhicitta