In this episode we look at how to improve our consideration for others. Consideration for others is defined as a distinct mental factor that avoids actions that harm others for their sake. It enables us to restrain from harmful physical, verbal and mental actions. Consideration for others acts as the basis for maintaining pure ethical conduct, prevents others from losing faith in us, and causes joy to arise in others’ minds.

Meditation

1. Imagine the people you live with or in your close family sitting close to you, facing you. Person by person, imagine looking at each one and contemplating how you could practice consideration for this person.
2. Then imagine looking at a few people you work with or go to school with; looking from face to face, contemplate how you could practice consideration for them.
3. Finally make a determination to practice consideration for others this week, avoiding ways that you harm others.

We studied verse 37 of The Dhammapada, a book containing the words of the Buddha spoken on various occasions and written down by his followers:

“Far-ranging, solitary

Incorporeal and hidden

Is the mind.

Those who restrain it

Will be freed of Mara’s bonds.”

References:

The Dhammapada. Translated by Gil Fronsdale. Shambala, Boston and London, 2011, pp. 9.

Abhidharmasamuccaya, The Compendium of the Higher Teaching (Philosophy) by Asanga. Originally translated into French and annotated by Warpola Rahula. English version from the French by Sara Boin-Webb. ASIAN HUMANITIES PRESS, Fremont, California, jainpub.com, pp. 8-10.