The Bodhisattva Doctrine in Buddhist Sanskrit Literature c8.s2.12

c8.s2.12

In the scheme of the ten *bhūmis*, a *bodhisattva* cultivates these “Efforts” in the fourth *bhūmi*. They are compared to the chariot of a spiritual warrior by Aṣvaghoṣa: the *bodhisattva* fights his enemies (the sins and passions), while he is seated in such an impregnable vehicle. They are particularly useful in combating the five hindrances and besetting sins, which are called *nīvaraṇāni* (coverings, veils, obstacles).⁹⁰ They enable a *bodhisattva* to rise above the stage of a Hīnayānist adept and enter on the career of advanced spirituality in the seventh and higher *bhūmis*, until he reaches final perfection as a Buddha. (*M. S. Al.*, 141; *Da. Bhū.*, 38; *Çikṣā*, 356; *Saund. Kā.*, xvii, 24.)