Paths/Buddhism, From Ground to Awakening (Sutta-First)/Optional: Brahmavihāras in the Early Texts (MN 7 + SN 46 + Iti)
Module 13.150 min

From Emotion to Cultivation

A practical antidote module that also deepens samādhi.

Learning Outcome

Practice brahmavihāras as disciplined cultivation and evaluate impact on ill will and reactivity.

Core Teachings

Key concepts with source texts

Treat them as mind trainings that counter specific hindrances (especially ill will) and stabilize attention.

From the Source Texts

""He abides pervading one quarter with a mind imbued with loving-kindness...""
Common formula across MN/AN (e.g., MN 7)Translation: Various

Commentary

The key is ‘abides pervading’: it’s intentional stabilization, not a mood.

Practice This

10 minutes/day metta for 14 days. Track whether ill will episodes shorten or soften.

Study Materials

Primary sources with guided reading

Additional Resources

MN 7 — Vatthūpama (Simile of the Cloth) (includes brahmavihāra framing)optional

Use as a purification-oriented frame rather than sentimentality.

Reflection & Critical Thinking

Write your thoughts before revealing answers

Consider these points:

  • What happens to the hindrance of ill will under metta?
  • What happens to the mind’s pliancy and unification?
  • How does this support insight (less distortion)?

Your Thoughts

Writing your thoughts first will deepen your understanding

Pairs well with M6 (hindrances) and M8 (concentration).
AI Bridge Notes

Bridge notes help connect the resources and show how they relate to the learning outcome.

AI-generated notes synthesize the lesson outcome and resource summaries. Human-reviewed before publishing.

Knowledge CheckTest your understanding

A sutta-grounded purpose of metta practice is best described as: