Paramita Texts

Some of the Paramita Texts

Shantideva, Bodhicaryavatara, (Way of the Bodhisattva, or Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life)

Shantideva was an 8th century Buddhist monk, and this text is one of the foundational texts of Tibetan Buddhism. It’s written in numbered four-line verse. The ten chapters are:

Chapter I: The Excellence of Bodhicitta
Chapter II: Confession
Chapter III: Taking Hold of Bodhicitta
Chapter IV: Attending to Bodhicitta
Chapter V: Guarding Introspection
Chapter VI: Patience
Chapter VII: Diligence
Chapter VIII: Meditative Concentration
Chapter IX: Wisdom
Chapter X: Dedication

Commentaries on the Bodhicaryavatara ~

  • His Holiness the Dalai Lama, A Flash of Lightning in the Dark of Night
  • His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Healing Anger (commentary on Chapter VI)

Gampopa, The Jewel Ornament of Liberation

Gampopa was the founder of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. This is a comprehensive practice text written in the early 12th century. The six paramitas are discussed at pp. 183-255.

Gyalsé Tokmé Zangpo, 37 Practices of the Bodhisattva

Another foundational text, written in the 14th century. It is very short, just 37 numbered paragraphs, and is most often published as a very small booklet. Each of the paramitas is covered in one or more of the numbered paragraphs.

Commentary on the 37 Practices of the Bodhisattva ~

  • Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, The Heart of Compassion
  • H.E. Garchen Rinpoche, The Commentary on The Essential Meaning of The Thirty Seven Practices of Bodhisattvas

Patrul Rinpoche, The Words of My Perfect Teacher

A 19th century text discussing the six paramitas at pp. 234-262