The Model of Bodhisattva Precepts Practice for Sustainable Cultivation Development in Chinese Buddhism in Modern Society

Abstract

This study employs a qualitative documentary research design to examine the practice of bodhisattva precepts in Chinese Buddhism in the context of modern society. The research has three objectives: (1) to investigate the evolutionary values and effects of bodhisattva precepts in Chinese Buddhism in modern society; (2) to identify ways to promote the sustainable cultivation and development of bodhisattva precepts practice; and (3) to propose a model of bodhisattva precepts practice for sustainable cultivation and development in Chinese Buddhism in modern society. Data were collected from primary Buddhist texts, Chinese and English academic studies, and modern literature related to Buddhist ethics, cultivation, and contemporary social development. The data were analyzed through descriptive, thematic, analytical, and interpretive approaches.

The findings show that bodhisattva precepts have maintained enduring significance in Chinese Buddhism through their strong ethical foundation, adaptability, and capacity to respond to changing historical and social conditions. Their continuity across Chinese Mahāyāna traditions demonstrates both doctrinal resilience and practical relevance. The study further finds that sustainable cultivation development depends on several interrelated conditions, including continuous study, systematic training, precept ordination, ongoing preaching and learning, adaptation to contemporary social life, and constructive integration with broader social and developmental agendas. On this basis, the study proposes a model of bodhisattva precept practice comprising six interdependent dimensions: mental content, theory, practice, system, adaptation, and application. In this model, bodhicitta serves as the moral foundation; theory provides guidance; practice forms the cultivation path; the system sustains continuity; adaptation ensures relevance; and application extends the model’s social function. The study concludes that this model offers a feasible framework for strengthening sustainable ethical cultivation in modern Chinese Buddhism and for extending the contemporary relevance of bodhisattva precepts in both religious and socially engaged contexts.