INDIAN HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -In the Early Buddhist schools, as well as modern Theravada Buddhism, bodhisattva (Pali: bodhisatta) refers to someone who has made a resolution to become a Buddha and has also received a confirmation or prediction from a living Buddha that this will be so.

Detailed explanation-2: -Bodhisattva in Theravada Buddhism It is also believed that Lord Buddha used this term to refer himself before and after he attained “Enlightenment”. Therefore, Bodhisattva implies a person who aims to attain Enlightenment. The Theravada also holds Bodhisattva at the highest position.

Detailed explanation-3: -Maitreya is the earliest bodhisattva around whom a cult developed and is mentioned in scriptures from the 3rd century ce. He was accepted by all schools of Buddhism and is still the only bodhisattva generally honoured by the Theravada tradition.

Detailed explanation-4: -The bodhisattva is an important figure in Theravada Buddhism. Tibetan Buddhists believe that it is possible to achieve enlightenment even after death during the time before one is reborn. The concept of shunyata or “emptiness” is an essential part of Theravada Buddhism.

Detailed explanation-5: -Bodhisattva is an ideal in Mahāyāna Buddhism. Bodhisattva is an aspirant of Buddhahood (buddhatva) who works for the enlightenment of all sentient beings in contrast to that of one’s own emancipation of the Arhat (an ideal in non-Mahāyāna traditions).