 | Buddhism and the spirit cults in North-east Thailand |  |
2. Karaniya metta sutta
He who is wise in his dealings with beings should follow (in the footprint
of) the Noble One who has attained the tranquil state of Nibbana. Let
him be brave, truthful, fair in his dealings, obedient, gentle and humble.
Let him be contented, satisfied with whatever is obtained. Let him
have few cares. Let him be unburdened and have his senses calmed. Let
him not be haughty nor cling to families.
He should not commit even the slightest mean act that can be blamed
by the wise; he should extend his compassion to all beings, thinking `May
all beings be happy, free from suffering and enjoy their happiness.'
May all living beings attain happiness, whether they show fear or are
fearless: whether they are tall or big or middle sized or short or thin
or fat.
Visible or invisible, staying far or near; already born or seeking birth,
may all beings enjoy their happiness.
Let not anyone deceive others nor look down upon others in any way.
Let not anyone cherish ill-will towards others because of anger or resentment.
Just as a mother guards her only son at the risk of her own life, so one
should extend his unlimited loving-kindness to all beings.
Let him extend loving-kindness towards all beings: above, below and
between, in such a manner that his loving-kindness will be unobstructed,
be without hatred and without enmity.
Standing, walking, sitting, lying, as long as he is awake, he should be
mindful of the practice of unlimited loving-kindness, which is regarded
by the wise as `the divine state of the mind' in Buddhism.
He who has disengaged from wrong views, is endowed with morality,
is perfect in right views, and has removed the craving for sensual pleasure,
will never lie again in the mother's womb (i.e. be born again).
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