That which was spoken by Santideva

To bring about the light of wisdom and liberation—

Here, I shall briefly state it

For the sake of auspiciousness, according to my ability.

This is not for the sake of fame in scholarship or poetry,

Nor do I claim the role of a teacher.

Having plunged into this task,

I write only to perfume my own mind.

With the wish to benefit all beings,

This common endeavor was undertaken.

Thus, perhaps it may assist someone

Whose heart sees the world in the same way.

Bodhicaryavatara

By Santideva

Chapter 1, Verses 1, 2, and 3

(original Sanskrit opposite)