Brahmaviharas

Brahmaviharas, also known as the four Brahma-viharas or four divine abodes, are a classical Buddhist framework for cultivating wholesome mental states toward oneself and others. They are commonly described as metta (loving-kindness), karuna (compassion), mudita (empathetic or sympathetic joy), and upekkha (equanimity). Together they form what is often called the four immeasurables and are emphasized across Theravada and Mahayana traditions as foundational meditative practices.

Metta is the wish for all beings to be happy and free from suffering, beginning with oneself and extending outward to friends, strangers, and even those regarded as adversaries. Karuna involves a compassionate response to the suffering of others and a wish to help relieve that suffering. Mudita is the joyful recognition of others’ happiness and success, without envy. Upekkha denotes even-mindedness and impartiality, maintaining balance in the face of change and recognizing the interdependence of all beings.

Practicing the brahmaviharas typically involves formal meditation—such as metta bhavana cycles or phrases directed toward different beings—as well as daily ethical conduct and mindful awareness. They are presented as antidotes to negative states such as ill-will, cruelty, envy, and indifference, and are intended to be cultivated gradually and integrated into ordinary life.

In traditional sources, the brahmaviharas are described as divine abodes that symbolize aspirational mental qualities. While not literal heavenly realms, they are viewed as practices that purify the mind and foster compassionate, ethical action. They continue to be central in many Buddhist contemplative approaches and teachings on interrelation.