BRAHMAVIHĀRA IN BUDDHIST PHILOSOPHY: ETHICAL IDEALS AND RELEVANCE IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY

Abstract

In Buddhist philosophy, the concept of Brahmavihāra is regarded as an important ideal for humanistic and ethical life. Brahmavihārarefers to four sublime mental states— Maitrī(loving-kindness), Karuṇā (compassion), Muditā (sympathetic joy), and Upekkhā (equanimity)—which contribute to the purification of the mind and the moral development of society. Mettā cultivates selfless goodwill toward all beings, Karuṇā inspires efforts to alleviate the suffering of others, Muditā teaches one to rejoice in the happiness of others, and Upekkhā develops mental balance by accepting pleasure and pain, gain and loss, success and failure with equal composure. The integrated practice of these four virtues reduces attachment, aversion, and ego-centeredness, thereby fostering wisdom and empathy. In the contemporary world, where violence, hostility, and mental unrest are steadily increasing, the Brahmavihāra ideal plays a vital role in restoring peace, ethical values, and harmonious human relationships at both individual and social levels. Therefore, the Brahmavihāra doctrine of Buddhist philosophy remains highly relevant and significant in modern society.