A Detailed Commentary on Shantideva's Way of the Bodhisattva
By Kunzang Pelden
Translated by the Padmakara Translation Group
Foreword by Jigme Khyentse, Dordogne 2006
Softcover, 482 pages

The Bodhicharyavatara, or Way of the Bodhisattva, composed by the eighth-century Indian master Shantideva, has occupied an important place in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition throughout its history. It is a guide to cultivating the mind of enlightenment through generating the qualities of love, compassion, generosity, and patience.

In this commentary, Kunzang Pelden has compiled the pith instructions of his teacher Patrul Rinpoche, the celebrated author of The Words of My Perfect Teacher. Kunzang Pelden (sometimes known as Khenpo Kunpel) was born in Tibet in 1862. Renowned for his spiritual realization, he was one of the great monk-scholars of the nonsectarian movement and was instrumental in the preservation of the oral traditions and teachings of the Nyingma school.

"If I have any understanding of compassion and the practice of the bodhisattva path, it is entirely on the basis of this text [The Way of the Bodhisattva] that I possess it." ~ His Holiness the Dalai Lama

"This is a must-have, must-read, must-contemplate, and must-follow book for those who wish to exercise the privilege of being heir to Shakyamuni Buddha's unique heritage." ~ Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse

"What a tremendous blessing and joy it is that Khenpo Kunpel's renowned commentary on the Bodhicharyavatara, based on the definitive oral instructions of the great saint and master of compassion Patrul Rinpoche, is now available in such a fluent and authoritative translation. This is a modern classic for our times - an exceptionally clear and comprehensive guide to Shantideva's timeless verses, an encyclopedic treasury of Buddhist wisdom, and an inspiring companion for all who seek to follow the compassionate path of the bodhisattvas." - Sogyal Rinpoche