This work，entitled "Entering the Path of Enlightenment," consists of eight chapters in verse and sets out to describe the methods of practice for attaining enlightenment，the final goal of Buddhism，and the merits accruing from the observance of these teachings. In particular，Chapter 1 stresses the important of generating 'the thought of enlightenment' (bodhicitta)，i.e. resolving to strive for the attainment of enlightenment.
The Chinese translation ascribes this work to Nagarjuna, whereas both the Sanskrit text and Tibetan translation give the author as Santideva; and even in the Chinese translation one finds phrases such as 'the Sage Bodhisattva Nagarjuna.' Therefore，since it is unlikely that the author would refer to himself as a 'sage,' it is probable that it was composed by Santideva.
