If you’re new to Shantideva, whether through Buddhist philosophy or the spiritual path, the journey can feel both profound and overwhelming. I remember my first encounter with his teachings — it was like being handed a lantern in a dark forest. Shantideva, the 8th-century Indian Buddhist monk and philosopher, is best known for his masterpiece, The Way of the Bodhisattva (Bodhicharyavatara), a guide not just for monks but for anyone seeking compassion and wisdom in daily life.

But where do you begin? There’s no single path, but there are guideposts. Here are five key steps to help newcomers navigate Shantideva’s world and teachings.

1. Start with The Way of the Bodhisattva

This is the cornerstone of Shantideva’s legacy. Written while he was a monk at Nalanda — one of the most revered centers of learning in ancient India — the text is a poetic and practical guide to cultivating the mindset of a bodhisattva: someone who seeks enlightenment not just for themselves, but for the benefit of all beings.

Don’t be intimidated by its depth. Read it slowly. Many newcomers begin with Chapter 6, "Patience," which is often the most relatable. It explores how to deal with anger, adversity, and difficult people — timeless struggles. If you're drawn in, continue with Chapter 8, "Meditation," which delves into how to transform the mind through compassion.

2. Understand the Bodhisattva Ideal

At the heart of Shantideva’s teaching is the bodhisattva ideal. This isn’t about becoming a saint or renouncing the world — it’s about a radical shift in intention. Instead of living for your own happiness, you make a conscious effort to act in ways that reduce suffering for others.

This ideal might seem lofty, but Shantideva never asks you to leap into sainthood overnight. He offers practical steps, like cultivating the six perfections: generosity, ethics, patience, joyful effort, meditation, and wisdom. These are not abstract virtues, but habits you can build into your daily life.

3. Embrace the Practice of Tonglen

One of the most powerful practices associated with Shantideva’s teachings is tonglen — a meditation that trains you to breathe in the suffering of others and breathe out peace and relief. It’s a direct way to internalize compassion and soften the boundaries between self and others.

I remember trying tonglen for the first time after reading about it in a commentary on The Way of the Bodhisattva. It felt uncomfortable at first — who wants to take on others’ pain? But over time, it became a source of strength and connection. If you're new to meditation, start small. Even a few minutes a day can shift your perspective.

4. Study with a Guide (or at Least a Good Commentary)

Shantideva’s text is rich with metaphor, irony, and philosophical nuance. Without context, it can be easy to misinterpret. That’s why many newcomers find it helpful to read alongside a commentary or study guide.

Books like The Way of the Bodhisattva: A Translation of the Bodhicharyavatara with Commentary from the Oral Tradition of Lama Tsongkhapa by the Padmakara Translation Group offer valuable insights. Better yet, if you can find a teacher or a sangha (spiritual community), that can make all the difference.

5. Reflect Daily — and Act

Shantideva’s teachings aren’t meant to be admired from a distance. They’re meant to be lived. That’s why he emphasizes the importance of reflection and self-examination. At the end of each day, ask yourself: Did I act out of compassion today? Did I reduce suffering — even in a small way?

You might be surprised at how quickly these questions begin to shape your choices. And if you ever want to explore these ideas in a deeper, more personal way, you can always talk to Shantideva himself.