Attitude plays a crucial role in how we live and relate to others. This article explores the concept of attitude through ancient Sanskrit terms and teachings from the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing friendliness, compassion, and self-forgiveness.
The Meaning of Attitude in Sanskrit
In Sanskrit, two related words highlight different aspects of positive human relationships: mitra means ‘friend,’ while maitri means ‘friendliness’ or ‘friendship’ as an inherent quality. The Bhagavad Gita advises cultivating maitri toward all beings.
Biblical Wisdom from the Bhagavad Gita
Lord Krishna says: Adveshta sarva-bhutanam maitrah karuna eva cha Nirmamo nirahankarah sama-duhkha-sukhah ksami (12.13), meaning one should be free from malice, friendly, compassionate, egoless, balanced in joy and sorrow, and forgiving.
Friendliness Beyond Boundaries
Unlike mitra, which denotes defined friendships, maitri is a universal quality of friendliness that extends to all beings, like a flower that shares its fragrance equally with everything nearby regardless of their nature or appreciation.
Attitude Toward Self and Others
An enlightened person should embody maitri by sharing care, knowledge, and forgiveness with anyone or anything encountered. This quality also relates to dealing with guilt—self-forgiveness is essential to heal and move forward wisely without holding onto hurt or frustration.
Maitri in Justice and Compassion
Some punitive systems focus on physical punishment but miss the deeper roots of crime. Maitri calls for compassion and mercy from the heart, advocating healing over harsh retribution.
Continuous Growth and Self-Friendship
Just like professionals must keep updating their knowledge, individuals attending self-development programs must remain connected to new energy and learning to stay empowered. Krishna reminds us:
Uddhared atmanatmanam natmanam avasadayet Atmaiva hyatmano bandhur atmaiva ripur atmanah (6.5), meaning one should lift oneself through one’s own efforts and consider oneself both a friend and an enemy.
Ultimately, being a friend to oneself and nurturing friendliness inwardly is key for spiritual growth and balanced living.
