Topic: Anger
Definition
Anger is a mental factor that disturbs the mind because it cannot tolerate a person, a suffering, or its trigger.
It covers the full spectrum from irritation and resentment to rage and thoughts of revenge.
The antidote is patience – the ability to remain calm and steady in the face of suffering and harm.
Why is anger so destructive:
- Destroys merit – instantly burns all good karma accumulated through good deeds
- Karmic consequence – plants seeds for rebirth in lower realms, opposite of Bodhisattva qualities
- Mental obscuration – blocks wisdom (prajna), makes mind slave to its own projections
Antidotes
- Meditate aboutContemplate the disadvantages of anger and the benefits of giving it up.If you can change the situation: why be angry? If you cannot change it: why be angry?
- Always try to practice „alertness“: Observe what your mind and feelings are dealing with.
- In the case you discover that anger arisesApply Breathing Technique: Hold breath 3 seconds → exhale fully → visualize blowing anger away like smoke. „This thought is impermanent.“Remind yourself on the following questions and apply them.’This person acts from ignorance – why should I get angry?‘
„Anger harms ME more than them.“
‚Their misbehavior is impermanent – why hold onto it?‘
→ Suddenly anger becomes your own mistake to correct.“
Materials
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