Patrul Rinpoche describes covetousness and wishing harm on others as the first two of three mental acts to be avoided. Within coveting, he includes even the slightest thoughts about gaining the possessions of others. Possessions can be considered not only material wealth but also accomplishments, status, relationships, or power. Wishing harm on others is more than hoping for something negative to befall our perceived enemy. We may also rejoice when something bad happens to them, or become disgruntled when something good happens to them.
Covetousness and wishing harm on others seem to go hand in hand. They bring to mind words like greed, envy, jealousy, malice, competition, rivalry and resentment. These all imply a strong sense of self-attachment and the placement of one’s own needs and desires above those of others. Hope and fear govern these actions – where is the equanimity?
The false belief characteristic of coveting is that acquiring one thing or another will bring happiness, security, or validation of who we think we are. We all know too well the feeling of wanting something so badly, finally getting that precious thing, and then the inevitable letdown afterwards. There is always something else, one more thing and if we could just have that, then we will be happy. We are habitually seeking happiness outside of ourselves through external means, rather than realizing that true happiness is found within. Worldly happiness is fleeting at best and shackles us to samsara.
Taking joy in the misfortune of others, aka Schadenfreude, may be a reflection of our uncomfortable self esteem issues, which are lessened when we see others suffering along with us, or “instead” of us. Others hardship sets us apart and seems to confirm our specialness. We may have adverse feelings towards others because we perceive that they have slighted us in some way. Or perhaps in judging others we have come to the conclusion that they are deserving or undeserving. Either way, we are setting ourselves apart and wanting to be special. It seems to be rather the opposite of compassion!
Cultivating appreciation of our current situation is important. With proper understanding of and belief in karma, we can be certain that our own and others ever changing situation is the result of causes and conditions based upon the actions of one’s body, speech and mind. We can also reflect upon the unsatisfactory nature of samsara, the inevitable suffering of all sentient beings. Rinpoche has advised us to frequently reflect upon impermanence.
In what situations do you have a tendency to find yourself coveting or wishing harm on others? What methods do you use to develop satisfaction and appreciation of your own circumstance?
Metta,
Sarah
