pou4 saat3菩薩菩萨
Jyutpingpou4 saat3
Yalepòuh saat
Definition
Bodhisattva; an enlightened being who strives to help all living beings attain liberation from suffering.
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How it's used
Beyond the formal religious context, this term is frequently used metaphorically to describe someone who is exceptionally kind, patient, or self-sacrificing. It carries a strong connotation of someone who endures hardship without complaint to benefit others. You will often hear it used in the phrase 泥菩薩過江, which refers to someone who is barely able to save themselves, let alone help anyone else.
Measure word
wai6位waihExamples
She is as kind as a bodhisattva and is always helping others.
Related words
Common phrases
Guanyin Bodhisattva
clay bodhisattva (metaphor for someone unable to protect themselves)
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with Buddha, which is 佛. While they are related in Buddhist tradition, 菩薩 specifically refers to those who have yet to reach full Buddhahood and are actively working to help others attain enlightenment.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
