[ceagstuntee]

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In Mahayana, the concept of relative bodhicitta is described as follows :

"Compassion characterised by the aspiration to liberate all sentient beings from suffering".



I was looking at "Differences between Theravada and Mahayana " at Buddhanet and in particular at no 5 on the list :

"Concept of Bodhicitta ....

Theravada =Main emphasis is self liberation.
There is total reliance on oneself to eradicate all defilements.



Mahayana =Besides self liberation, it is important for Mahayana followers to help other sentient beings. "


http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/snapshot02.htm


Surely the welfare of others is important to Theravadins too, is it not?

How can a person 'liberate all sentient beings from suffering' or even imagine that its possible to do that? Is this simply a means for generating compassion towards others?

I'd be interested in hearing different views about this (whilst being mindful of showing respect towards other traditions)