Joy frees the mind from envy
When we sincerely rejoice in others' goodness, the mind no longer sees their achievements as our loss. Joy is directed toward genuine qualities and benefits, not every form of success.
The Four Immeasurables
What Are Joy and Equanimity? Wholesome Joy and a Balanced Mind
Pāli: muditā, upekkhā · Sanskrit: muditā, upekṣā · Vietnamese: Hỷ, xả
Joy and equanimity are two important qualities among the Four Immeasurables. Joy is delight in others' happiness, goodness, and progress; equanimity is mental balance, undisturbed by affection and aversion, gain and loss, or bias. Combined in the expression “joy and equanimity,” these two qualities remind us to rejoice in goodness without clinging to emotions or outcomes. Joy does not mean rejoicing in harmful success; equanimity does not mean coldness, disregard, or avoiding responsibility. Accompanied by wisdom, joy weakens envy and equanimity prevents kindness from becoming control. Beginners can congratulate one specific good deed, recognize the comparing mind, and remember that everyone is affected by their own actions and conditions.
A guide by Inti Foundation · updated
Equanimity keeps kindness wise
Equanimity helps us care without possessing, and support without demanding control over outcomes. A balanced mind still acts when needed, but reacts less out of bias.
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Practice today
- 1.Send specific congratulations for another person's good deed.
- 2.When comparison arises, recognize it without self-blame and return to your own wholesome actions.
- 3.In the face of gain or loss, remember that actions have consequences but you do not control every condition.
Frequently asked questions
Do joy and equanimity mean letting everything slide?
No. Joy means rejoicing in goodness; equanimity means balance and impartiality. Both still accompany responsibility and Right View.
How does equanimity differ from indifference?
Indifference withdraws from caring; equanimity continues to care and act without being controlled by attachment or aversion.
Can I practice joy while feeling envious?
Yes. Recognize envy, find one specific good thing to congratulate, and do not force yourself to have perfect feelings immediately.
Sources for deeper reading
What Are the Four Immeasurables?
The Inti source page explains loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity, along with common misunderstandings in practice.