Brahmavihara Dhamma by Mahasi Sayadaw is an extensive instructional book from the monasteries of Burma. It was published back in 1983 and it presents full instructions on how to develop and a long series of practices like the four Brahmavihrara, metta, karuna, mudita and upekkha according to the original teachings by the Buddha. Download the ebook here (498 pages/1.7MB):
Brahmavihara Dhamma
What is Brahmavihara?
Brahmavihara Dhamma refers to the “Sublime States” or “Divine Abidings” in Buddhist teachings. These are a series of four practices and attitudes cultivated to develop positive qualities of the mind and promote harmonious relationships with others. The Brahmaviharas are:
- Metta (Loving-kindness): This is the wish for all sentient beings to be well and happy. It is an unconditional love and kindness extended to all beings without discrimination. Metta is the antidote to ill will and hatred.
- Karuna (Compassion): This is the wish for all sentient beings to be free from suffering and the causes of suffering. It arises from seeing the suffering of others and wishing to relieve it. Karuna is the antidote to cruelty.
- Mudita (Sympathetic Joy): This is the joy in the happiness and success of others. Instead of feeling envious of others’ success or happiness, one feels joy. Mudita is the antidote to envy and jealousy.
- Upekkha (Equanimity): This is a balanced state of mind that remains undisturbed in life’s ups and downs. It is the ability to remain calm, composed, and even-tempered regardless of life’s challenges. Upekkha is the antidote to partiality and bias.
The cultivation of these four Brahmaviharas helps in the development of a calm and peaceful mind, conducive for deeper meditation and insight. They also serve as a guide for how one should interact with others in a positive and harmonious manner.
