All sentient beings in this life can be categorized into five types of people:
1. Those who only think of themselves (Self-Centered – Ātman)
These individuals focus solely on their personal needs and interests, without consideration for others.
Example: A snake hunts prey solely for its survival, caring only for itself. This is a manifestation of selfishness (Attavāda).
2. Those who care for their family and close group (Caring for Close Beings – Upakāra-Puggala)
These people show love and care for those close to them, such as spouses (Dampati), parents (Mātā-Pitā), siblings (Bhrātṛ), or friends within their group.
However, their concern is limited to those who directly influence their own benefits, emotions (Citta), or affections (Vedanā).
3. Those capable of loving strangers (Compassionate Towards All Beings – Karunā Chitta)
These individuals care for those with no personal connection to them.
Example: They may feel moved by seeing a person with disabilities (Apāṅga) and offer help or donate to orphanages (Anātha) or nursing homes in need.
This reflects compassion (Karunā), which transcends selfishness.
4. Those who can love the friends of their enemies (Unbiased Compassion for Beings – Maitrī Karunā)
Such people harbor hatred only for their enemies and do not extend that hatred (Dveṣa) to others associated with them.
Example: They do not bear ill will towards the family or friends of their foes (Satru Mitra).
This demonstrates a transcendence of discrimination (Advesa), though such individuals are rare, as most people tend to propagate negative emotions.
5. Those who can love their enemies (Boundless Compassion – Maitrī Karunā Upekṣā)
This is the highest and most challenging category.
To love one’s enemies (Satru), one needs a vast heart (Mahākarunā), the ability to let go of hatred (Dosa), and profound compassion.
This group embodies the path to enlightenment (Bodhi) and ultimate Buddhahood (Buddhahood).
An Example of Personal Obsessions (Attachments – Saṅkhāra)
There are individuals who suffer deep psychological wounds, leading to extreme behaviors.
Example: A person who witnessed their mother being mistreated by their father might develop a lifelong obsession with specific characteristics (e.g., a mole or red shoes) tied to their trauma.
This attachment (Vāsanā) can lead to negative actions if left without healing.
Lessons Learned:
We must recognize that hatred (Dosa), prejudice (Saṅkhāra), and negative emotions often spread like a chain reaction.
To achieve inner freedom (Vimutti) and the ability to love beyond limitations, one must cultivate compassion (Karunā) and mindfulness (Sati).
The journey from the lower categories to the highest is not only a personal path but also a mission towards creating a better society.
Reflect on Yourself:
- Which category do you belong to? (Kāya, Vācā, Manas?)
- How can you rise to higher categories?
Lesson by Venerable Toại Khanh