The Advantages of Friendliness Meditation
There are these eleven benefits to be expected for one whose awareness-release through friendliness meditation is cultivated, developed, made much of, handed the reins, established, maintained, augmented, and well-undertaken.
- He sleeps well (easily)
- He wakes up well (easily)
- He does not see evil dreams
- He is dear to human beings
- He is dear to non-human beings
- The gods protect him
- Neither fire, poison, or weapons can affect him
- He can concentrate mind quickly
- His complexion becomes bright
- He dies unconfused
- If he penetrates no higher, he will go to the Brahma world.
(Mettāsuttaṃ, AN 11)
How Friendliness Meditation should be done
This is to be done by one skilled in aims, Who has comprehended the state of peace.
- Be capable
- Straight
- Straightforward
- Easy to instruct
- Meek
- Without conceit
- Satisfied
- Easy to support
- With few duties
- Living lightly
- With faculties at peace
- Prudent
- Modest
- No greed among the families
- Do not do the slightest thing whereby others who are wise would censure
With these qualities, should be developed as follows:
May all beings be happy and secure!
May all beings be happy at heart!
Whatever beings there may be –
- Trembling & firm or any other beings
- Long or great
- Middling, short, tiny, gross
- Seen & unseen
- Living near & far away
- Born or seeking birth
May all beings be happy at heart!
Let no one cheat another
or despise anyone anywhere …
As a mother would protect her child,
her only child, with her life
Even so should, cultivates the heart measureless thought of friendliness on all beings
He should develop the measureless thought of friendliness for entire world,
Above, below, and across,
without barriers, hostility or hate
Whether standing, walking, sitting,
or lying down, for as long as without torpor,
He should be resolved on this mindfulness,
this is called a great dwelling (Brahma-vihāra) here.
(Mettasuttaṃ, Suttanipāta)
