Tag Meditation

• Article of ALOK MIND (Buddhist Psychology) No. 4.
• Author: Bhikkhu ALOKA
• Published by ALOK MIND Foundation 
• Issued: 9 December, 2023

Abstract

This article analyzes the multifarious meanings of Muditā (sympathetic joy) in Buddhist scriptures, such as the sangiti Sutta in the Long Discourse of the Buddha, Buddhaghosa’s commentary, visuddhimagga, and so on. Primarily, four different and interesting meanings are identified: 1) Sympathetic joy serves as a meditation technique for experiencing unconditional joy, extending beyond mere sensual joyfulness or exhilaration. 2) Sympathetic joy represents a divine state or sublime attitude. 3) Sympathetic joy is a) an etymologically excellent word, b) an innocent practice, c) a virtuous practice for everyone, d) the practice of noble people or Buddhas, nature-holy people. 4) Sympathetic joy is a practice for deliverance as well as an element to nurture our joyful mind, guarding it against ill-will.

Keyword: Multifarious Meanings, Muditā (Sympathetic Joy)

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Etymological Analysis of Sympathetic Joy

• Article of ALOK MIND (Buddhist Psychology) No. 3.
• Author: Bhikkhu ALOKA
• Published by ALOK MIND Foundation 
• Issued: 23 November, 2023

Abstract

This paper explores the etymology of the Pali term “Muditā,” analyzing it into “muda” (joyful) and “tā” (practice). It posits Muditā as the practice of joyful living, centered on Dhamma phenomena. The Pali-English dictionary defines Muditā as soft-heartedness, kindliness, and sympathy, with the analysis unveiling “muda” occasionally signifying ‘soft’ or ‘soft-heartedness.’ Muditā, also written as Mudita, is meant a pleased heart, glad mind, and a satisfied state. Divergent Pali word usages are examined, leading to a concise interpretation of Muditā as joyfulness. Exploring the four factors of sympathetic joy, the meaning of Muditā is joyfulness on the other hand, according to Buddhaghosa’s Commentary, the meaning of Muditā is self-joyfulness or the satisfaction of life without negative judgment and competition.

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Joyful Life and Daily Practices

• Article of ALOK MIND (Buddhist Psychology) No. 1.
• Author: Bhikkhu ALOKA
• Published by ALOK MIND Foundation 
• Issued: 1 October, 2023

Abstract

This academic paper investigated the origins and impacts of common psychological problems in human life. Drawing from Buddhist philosophy and psychological insights, it explores how negative thought processes can give rise to issues such as excessive selfishness, unhappiness at others’ success, jealousy, dissatisfaction with life, and judgment. These problems are traced back to the root cause of negative thought (Ayoniso Manasikara), which can be considered the source of evil in the ultimate analysis.

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