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अनुकम्पा(Anukampā)

Compassion

Feeling and acting with kindness.
Detailed Description

Anukampā is the deep feeling of empathy and kindness towards the suffering of others, accompanied by the desire to help and alleviate their pain. It is an active virtue that inspires benevolent actions and fosters love, understanding, and selflessness.

Significance & Importance

In Sanatan Dharma, compassion is central to ethical living and spiritual growth. It breaks the barriers of selfishness and connects individuals through universal love and service.

Practice Methods
  • Practicing empathy by putting oneself in others’ shoes.
  • Engaging in charitable acts and seva (selfless service).
  • Meditation focused on loving-kindness (Metta Bhavana).
  • Forgiving those who cause harm and wishing them well.
  • Cultivating patience and gentle speech.
Effects of Cultivation
  • Enhanced interpersonal relationships.
  • Increased inner peace and emotional fulfillment.
  • Greater social harmony and cooperation.
  • Personal growth through selfless love.
Scriptural References

Bhagavad Gita 12.13

""He who has no malice toward any being, who is friendly and compassionate, free from egoism and selfishness... is dear to me.""

Highlights compassion as a divine quality.

Manusmriti 6.92

""One should never abandon compassion even for one's enemies.""

Emphasizes universal compassion.

Common Misunderstandings
  • Compassion is not pity or weakness.
  • It does not mean enabling harmful behavior.
Examples in Daily Life
  • Helping someone in distress without expecting reward.
  • Listening patiently to others’ problems.
  • Volunteering for humanitarian causes.
  • Being gentle and kind even in stressful situations.
Modern Relevance

Compassion is vital for addressing social issues, mental health, and fostering inclusive communities.

Related Concepts:

Empathy
Kindness
Altruism
Selflessness
Loving-kindness

Category:

Ethical Virtue

Tags:

compassion
kindness
empathy
altruism
love

Cultivating these Gunas (virtues) leads to a balanced, harmonious, and spiritually fulfilling life. The information provided is for educational purposes.