Metta Parami in Theravada Buddhist Philosophy

Abstract

          This academic article aimed to examine and analyze the practice of Metta Parami (the perfection of loving-kindness) as presented in the Tipitaka, the primary scriptures of Theravada Buddhism. The study sought to reinterpret Metta not merely as a basic virtue but as a spiritual perfection that required long-term, intensive cultivation of the mind and the transformation of self-centeredness. This article employs content analysis and philosophical interpretation based on original canonical texts.

          The findings revealed that the practice of Metta Parami appeared in various narratives within the Tipitaka, especially in the Jataka tales of the Bodhisatta’s past lives-such as the Mahasonananda Jataka, the Sattigumba Jataka, and the Mahavesantara Jataka-as well as in sections of the Vinaya and Suttas where systematic methods of cultivating loving-kindness, such as in the Metta Sutta, were discussed. These examples demonstrated that true Metta Parami was rooted in pure intention, egoless compassion, and self-sacrifice for the welfare of all beings. The new body of knowledge from this study was the conceptualization of Metta Parami as a transformative moral force that could sustainably influence individuals, organizations, and society. The article proposed the M.E.T.T.A. Model, which consisted of five core components: Mindful Compassion, Egoless Giving, Transcending Boundaries, Training in Equanimity, and Applied Wisdom-offering a practical framework for cultivating and applying Metta Parami in real life.