1. Bodhisattva and Arhat
The Buddhist Ideal

2. Arhat Theravada tradition Means: One who has conquered his mind
Enlightened being
Free from greed, hatred and ignorance
Wise and compassionate being
Always male and a monk
Has made a solitary journey to enlightenment
Will not be reborn into Samsara
Enters pari nibbana after death, cannot be contacted to help others

3. Bodhisattva Mahayana tradition Enlightened being
Free from greed, hatred and ignorance
A wise and compassionate being
Can be female (Tara)
Can be lay person or monk
Takes a vow to continue to be reborn into Samsara until all sentient beings have become enlightened
Can be called on to help others on the Path

4. Similarities
Both Arhats and bodhisattvas are beings who have conquered all desire
They comprehend the true nature of reality
They act with compassion towards others
They help lay and monastic Buddhists understand scriptures and other teachings
They are supported by, and support the laity

5. Differences
The arhat has achieved enlightenment on his own and for his own sake
His major focus has been on the scriptures and teachings of the Buddha
He has followed a very strict solitary path
Bodhisattva has achieved enlightenment for the sake of others as well as himself
He will be reborn into a body that will suffer and die
Has not followed the Path as strictly as the arhat
More focus on practice in the bodhisattva path