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.

“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.”—H. H. 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, author of What Makes You Not a Buddhist

“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, author of The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying