Karuna

Definition

Karuna is a Sanskrit term meaning 'compassion' or 'empathy,' representing a fundamental quality in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. It emphasizes the deep emotional response to the suffering of others and the desire to alleviate that suffering. This concept is pivotal in the teachings of various female gurus and saints in Hinduism, as well as among female bodhisattvas and Buddhas in Mahayana Buddhism, showcasing how these figures embody and express compassion in their teachings and actions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Karuna is often depicted in the imagery of female bodhisattvas such as Avalokiteshvara, who embodies boundless compassion and assists all beings in overcoming suffering.
2. In Hinduism, many female saints and gurus like Mirabai demonstrate karuna through their poetry and actions, focusing on love, devotion, and service to others.
3. Karuna is not just a feeling; it involves action and the commitment to alleviate the suffering of others, making it a core practice in both Hinduism and Buddhism.
4. In Mahayana Buddhism, karuna is considered essential for achieving enlightenment, as one must cultivate compassion for all living beings.
5. The practice of karuna can lead to personal transformation, fostering a sense of interconnectedness with others and enhancing one's spiritual journey.

Review Questions

• How do female gurus and saints in Hinduism embody the concept of karuna in their teachings?
  • Female gurus and saints in Hinduism embody karuna by teaching through example, emphasizing love, devotion, and selfless service to alleviate the suffering of others. Figures like Mirabai express this compassion through poetry that conveys deep empathy and connection to the divine. Their teachings inspire followers to embrace karuna in their own lives, reinforcing the importance of caring for others as a spiritual practice.
• Analyze how the concept of karuna is represented by female bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism and its significance.
  • In Mahayana Buddhism, female bodhisattvas such as Avalokiteshvara represent karuna as a guiding principle. They are often depicted with numerous arms to symbolize their ability to help many beings simultaneously, demonstrating boundless compassion. This representation underscores the significance of karuna not only as an individual practice but also as a communal responsibility, emphasizing that enlightenment involves caring for others' welfare.
• Evaluate the role of karuna in transforming personal spirituality among practitioners in both Hinduism and Buddhism.
  • Karuna plays a crucial role in transforming personal spirituality by fostering empathy and interconnectedness among practitioners in both Hinduism and Buddhism. By actively engaging in compassionate acts, individuals cultivate a deeper understanding of their relationship with others, which enhances their spiritual growth. This transformation leads to a shift from self-centeredness towards a more altruistic mindset, ultimately encouraging practitioners to pursue enlightenment not just for themselves but for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Related terms

Bodhisattva: A being who has attained enlightenment but chooses to remain in the cycle of rebirth to help others achieve enlightenment, embodying the principle of compassion.

Seva: Selfless service or acts of kindness performed for the benefit of others without any expectation of reward, often linked to the practice of compassion.

Dharma: The moral and ethical duties or responsibilities one must follow according to their role in society, guiding individuals in their pursuit of compassion and spiritual growth.