Do some, all, or no Mahayanists claim that we are all "bodhisattvas"? Do some, all, or no Mahayanists claim that we are all &quot;bodhisattvas&quot;? Obviously, those influenced by the Lotus sutra claim that we are all -- at least potentially -- Buddhas. But I'm unclear about the word &quot;bodhisattva&quot;, whether anyone at all can rightfully claim they are a bodhisattva.
For example, I think I'm aware of some ch'an Buddhists, which was deeply influenced by the 'one vehicle', saying that we progress through stages, only being bodhisattvas after abandoning the three vehicles. But perhaps this is skilful means, and not at all the case?
As i understand it they think that those who do a ceremonial ritual of taking the Bodhisatta vows become Bodhisattas. I may be wrong tho.