Have benevolence towards all living beings, joy at the sight
of the virtuous, compassion and sympathy for the afflicted,
and tolerance towards the indolent and ill-behaved.
................................................................................ Tattvarthasutra 7.11
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Ranak Pur Rishab Ji Jain Temple
Facade (INDIA)

 

“Therefore, neither does he [, a sage] cause violence to others
nor does he make others do so.”
.................................................................................. Acarangasutra 5.101-2
The Jina has taught to observe sixteen Bhavanas. Of them the following four can easily be practiced by householders while the rest may be observed once one becomes more serious about spiritual uplift.

1) Maitri Bhavana ( thinking of a friendship): Lord Mahävira said that we must be a friend to all living beings. The feeling of friendship brings love and respect for others. It also initiates a feeling of brotherhood amongst all and in turn leaves no room for harm, deceit or quarrelsomeness with anybody. If we contemplate on Maitri Bhavana our thoughts, words, and actions will not be harsh and we will not hurt anybody. On the contrary, we will support and protect everybody.

2) Pramod Bhavana ( thinking of Appreciation): In this bhavana we admire the success of our friends, spiritual leaders and Arihants. One of the most destructive forces in our lives is jealousy. However, friendship combined by admiration, destroys jealousy. As jealousy subsides, negative impulses are turned into positive ones, and in time you will be at peace.
3) Karuna Bhavana ( thinking of Compassion): Instead of succeeding, many of our friends may be getting into trouble for things they should not be doing and even those who are successful may be accumulating vices such as greed and ego. If such is the case then, they are not on the right path and may be weak, helpless, and in distress. At a time like this you should contemplate on the Karuna Bhavana and show compassion towards them.
4) Madhyastha Bhavana (Think of staying neutral or uninvolved): Life appears to be nothing but involvements. Sometimes life works out favourable and sometimes it does not. So instead of getting disappointed, angry, or more involved, you should contemplate on Madhyastha Bhavana which leads to a feeling that 'I did my best to resolve the situation.'

“In happiness and suffering, in joy and grief, we should regard all creatures as we regard our own self”
................................................................................................................. Lord Mahavira, 24th Tirthankara