A PERSPECTIVE OF LOVE: POSSIBLE MISINTERPRETATIONS OF METTĀ

Abstract

This paper discusses the possible problems in interpreting mettā as an entity disconnected from an immaterial consciousness that exists as material energy or vibrations. It is suggested that this interpretation may be a reifi cation of mettā. Understanding mettā as empirically sensed energy might be a modern interpretation of an ancient concept. A scientifi c explanation of this concept as something that is empirically evident in the body or environment might not be what the Buddha intended when describing it. Instead, the Buddha may have meant that mettā is simply a quality of immaterial consciousness that promotes love to all beings from the perspective of the observer always residing within that observer’s consciousness.