The Karaṇīya Mettā Sutta (Sn 1.8; Khp 9) is one of the most loved discourses in the Theravāda world and is often chanted as a blessing (paritta). According to the commentary, the Buddha taught it to a group of monks who felt afraid while meditating in a forest.
The qualities to develop
The sutta first describes the qualities of someone who wants to reach peace: capable, upright, straightforward, gentle in speech, humble, content, easily supported, not busy, with calm senses, wise and modest.
Wishing well for all beings
It then expresses the heart of loving-kindness: may all beings be happy and secure — weak or strong, large or small, seen or unseen, near or far, born or yet to be born. May no one deceive or despise another, or wish harm on anyone through anger or ill-will.
Like a mother’s love
The most famous image in the sutta compares mettā to a mother who would protect her only child with her life. In the same way, we are encouraged to cultivate a boundless heart towards all beings, above, below and all around, whether standing, walking, sitting or lying down.
Sabbe sattā bhavantu sukhitattā.
May all beings be happy.
Try it: read the sutta slowly before a mettā meditation session. See our loving-kindness meditation guide.