How to Live a Long Life According to Buddhist Teachings

The text discusses how to live a long life according to Buddhist teachings. It mentions that it is necessary to develop the great virtues of Amitayus, which are signified by his form. It also says that Confucius said that “For the man who is always beneficent, life will be very long.” In Buddhism, bodhicitta is recognized as the prime factor for long life.

Questions

• What are the great virtues of Amitayus?
• What did Confucius say about living a long life?
• What is bodhicitta?

Answers

• The great virtues of Amitayus are compassion, loving-kindness, patience, generosity, and determination.
• Confucius said that “For the man who is always beneficent, life will be very long.” This means that if you are kind and helpful to others, you will live a long life.
• Bodhicitta is the aspiration to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. It is considered to be the most important factor in achieving long life.