In the realm of loving-kindness meditation, Metta, a practice deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions, unfolds its expansive petals through the method known as Appamana Cetovimutti. This second approach involves spreading boundless loving-kindness to all directions—North, East, West, South, their sub-directions, as well as above and below—a profound journey of compassion that transcends all boundaries.
Understanding Appamana Cetovimutti
Appamana Cetovimutti translates to “Unbounded Release of the Mind,” and in the context of Metta meditation, it signifies the boundless and immeasurable nature of loving-kindness. This practice invites practitioners to extend their benevolent wishes not only to themselves and loved ones but to all beings in the ten directions.
Appamana Cetovimutti Meditation Lines
May I be free from anger! May I be free from ill will! May I be free from suffering! May I live in peace! May I live happily!
May all beings in the eastern direction be free from anger! be free from ill will! be free from suffering! May they live in peace! May they live happily!
May all beings in the south-east direction …
May all beings in the southern direction …
May all beings in the south-west direction …
May all beings in the western direction …
May all beings in the north-west direction …
May all beings in the northern direction …
May all beings in the north-east direction …
May all beings in the upward direction …
May all beings in the downward direction be free from anger! be free from ill will! be free from suffering! May they live in peace! May they live happily!
May all beings be well and happy! be well and happy! be well and happy!
The Practice
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- Setting the Stage:
- Begin by finding a quiet space for meditation.
- Assume a comfortable posture, allowing your body to relax.
- Generating Loving-Kindness:
- Start by cultivating a deep sense of loving-kindness towards yourself.
- Extend these wishes to loved ones, visualizing their happiness and well-being.
- Expanding to the Directions:
- Now, turn your focus and extend loving-kindness to all the directions and sub-directions—East, Southeast, South, Southwest, West, Northwest, North and Northeast.
- Envision a radiant sphere of compassion encompassing all beings in these directions.
- Above and Below
- Extend your loving-kindness upwards, encompassing beings in the celestial realms.
- Extend your wishes downwards, embracing all sentient beings dwelling in the earth.
- Repeating Phrases:
- Incorporate phrases such as “May all beings be happy, may all beings be free from suffering” as you visualize and radiate loving-kindness.
- Setting the Stage:
The Significance of Appamana Cetovimutti
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Universal Compassion: Appamana Cetovimutti transforms Metta meditation into a practice of universal compassion. By extending loving-kindness to all directions, practitioners break down the barriers of limited compassion and cultivate a boundless heart.
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Breaking Barriers: The practice transcends geographical and conceptual boundaries, breaking down the distinctions between self and others. It encourages practitioners to embrace all sentient beings with an open heart.
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Expanding Consciousness: The expansive nature of Appamana Cetovimutti not only benefits the recipient of loving-kindness but also expands the consciousness of the practitioner. It serves as a powerful antidote to feelings of isolation and separation.
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Closing Thoughts
As we delve into the realms of Appamana Cetovimutti within Metta meditation, we witness the transformative power of boundless love. This practice guides us beyond the limitations of our immediate surroundings, urging us to radiate compassion to all corners of existence. In this expansive journey, we discover that true loving-kindness knows no bounds—it encompasses the entire universe, bringing healing and harmony to all beings in the ten directions.
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