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When happiness is liked by me and others equally, what is…

“When happiness is liked by me and others equally, what is so special about me that I should strive after happiness only for myself?” quote by Śāntideva
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““When happiness is liked by me and others equally, what is so special about me that I should strive after happiness only for myself?””

Śāntideva

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

True happiness is not selfish; it is shared equally, and one should not cling to personal joy alone.

In simple terms: Happiness should be shared, not only personal.

Key Takeaway

Seek shared well‑being over selfish joy.

Themes

compassion equanimity selflessness spiritual ethics

Mood

serene determined

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • community service
  • mindful relationships
  • teaching
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

Mahāyāna Buddhism interdependence ego selflessness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you cultivate joy that benefits all?
  • What practices reduce selfish attachment to happiness?
A Different Perspective

Balancing personal happiness with altruism can be challenging.

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