The Interpretation on Love as Manifested in the Karaniya Metta Sutta of Theravada Buddhism and the Mahakaruna Dharani of Mahayana Buddhism

Abstract

The objectives of this research article are: 1) to study the interpretation of love in the Metta Sutta of Theravada Buddhism; 2) to study the interpretation of love in the Mahakaruna Dharani of Mahayana Buddhism; and 3) to comparatively study the interpretation of love between the Metta Sutta of Theravada Buddhism and the Mahakaruna Dharani of Mahayana Buddhism. This qualitative research employs an interpretive approach to the Pali Canon, Mahayana sutras, and relevant research literature. The findings of the study are as follows: 1) The interpretation of love in the Metta Sutta of Theravada Buddhism: Theravada Buddhism interprets love through the dimensions of language and levels of Dhamma states (Sabhava-dhamma). Love is categorized into the levels of defilement (Raga/Sineha), attachment (Pema), and pure ethical love, which is Metta (loving-kindness). In the Metta Sutta, Metta is defined as Mettā-cetovimutti (liberation of mind through loving-kindness) or a tool for refining the mind to be free from hindrances (Nivarana). It is an unconditional and selfless (Anatta) love radiated immeasurably toward all sentient beings. 2) The interpretation of love in the Mahakaruna Dharani of Mahayana Buddhism: Mahayana Buddhism interprets love through the Bodhisattva ideal, linking it to the concept of Tathagatagarbha, which posits that all sentient beings possess an inherent pure Buddha-nature. Love in the Mahakaruna Dharani thus manifests as Mahakaruna (Great Compassion), which is inseparable from Metta and Prajna (Wisdom). Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva serves as the symbol of proactive world succor. The interpretation focuses on the state of emptiness (Sunyata) and the oneness with all sentient beings, leading to distinct practical ethics, such as vegetarianism, which reflects a love that regards other beings as equal to one’s own child. 3) Both sects aim to dissolve the ego in order to realize the ultimate truth, yet they differ in their methods and objectives based on their respective scriptural contexts. Theravada focuses on the process of analytically discerning phenomena to achieve inner peace and the cessation of suffering at the individual level, with loving-kindness serving as a key ethical stage.