In the Mahayana tradition of Buddhism, there is more of a focus on becoming a Bodhisattva, which is one is nearing their own nirvana, but keeps themselves just short of that glorious state in order to help others through their own journeys toward enlightenment.
As you begin to think about the way this is done in practice, you very quickly realize it will be a never-ending quest…a never-ending journey. In other words, it involves a commitment to sacrifice one’s own enlightenment for the sake of others possibly reaching theirs. It reminds me a little of Jesus, who sacrificed His own glory to redeem all of mankind…but only if they accept the grace of His salvation. (From my Christian background…the big difference is that Jesus did rise again from the dead and eventually go to sit at the right hand of God at the Pentecost.)
Note: The following is based on information from this site.
Built off the Four Noble Truths, there are Four Vows of a Bodhisattva, which are:
1. I vow to rescue the boundless living beings from suffering. (Link to the 1st Noble Truth)
2. I vow to put an end to the infinite afflictions of living beings. (Link to the 2nd Noble Truth)
3. I vow to realize the unsurpassed path of the Buddha. (Link to the 3rd Noble Truth)
4. I vow to learn the measureless Dharma-doors. (Link to the 4th Noble Truth)
According to this site, “Foundation of the Mahayana Path, these vows say, ‘Whatever the highest perfection of the human heart-mind, may I realize it for the benefit of all that lives!’
There is a part of me that believes my affinity for the Mahayana school and for the Bodhisattva path are rooted in my Christian identity. After all, when I was a young new believer, I took the Great Commandment (Go and make disciples of all the nations) very seriously.
Even if that is not the basis of my affinity for that “flavor” of Buddhism, it resonates with me because I believe the only way I could fully achieve my own enlightenment is to loosen my grasp on the need to achieve it by learning how to share the path with others.