The Essence of Buddhism

All beings desire happiness; therefore to all extend your benevolence.—Mahavamsa. Because he has pity upon every living creature, therefore is a man called "holy."—Dhammapada. Like as a mother at the risk of her life watches over her only child, so also let every one cultivate towards all beings a boundless (friendly) mind.—Metta-sutta. Hurt not others with that which pains yourself.—Udanavarga. I cannot have pleasure while another grieves and I have power to help him.—Jatakamala. With pure thoughts and fulness of love, I will do towards others what I do for myself.—Lalita Vistara. If you desire to do something pleasing to me, then desist from hunting forever! The poor poor beasts of the forest, being ... dull of intellect, are worthy of pity for this very reason.—Jatakamala. You will generously follow the impulse of pity, I hope.—Jatakamala.