The Discourse on Love

Those who are skilled in the meaning of scripture ^[1]

should practice as follows <j>to realize the state of peace. ^[2]

Let them be capable and upright, very upright,

easy to speak to, gentle and humble;

content and unburdensome,

unbusied, living lightly,

alert, with senses calmed,

courteous, not fawning on families.

Let them not do the slightest thing

that others who are wise would blame. ^[3]

May they be happy and safe!

May all beings be happy!

Whatever living creatures there are

with not a one left out—

frail or firm, long or large, ^[4]

medium, small, tiny or round,

seen or unseen,

living far or near,

those who have been born <j>and those about to be born— ^[5]

may all beings be happy!

Let none deceive another,

nor look down on anyone anywhere.

Though provoked or aggrieved,

let them not wish pain on each other.

Even as a mother would protect with her life

her child, her only child,

so too for all creatures

unfold a boundless heart.

With love for the whole world,

unfold a boundless heart:

above, below, all round,

unconstricted, without enmity or foe.

When standing, walking, sitting,

or lying down while yet unweary,

keep this ever in mind;

for this, they say, is a divine meditation <j>in this life.

Avoiding harmful views, ^[6]

virtuous, accomplished in insight,

with desire for sensual pleasures dispelled,

they never return to a womb again. ^[7]