Equanimity

Equanimity is a state of psychological stability and composure which is undisturbed by experience of or exposure to emotions, pain, or other phenomena that may cause others to lose the balance of their mind. The virtue and value of equanimity is extolled and advocated by a number of major religions and ancient philosophies.

Definition

Equanimity is derived from the Latin aequanimitas (aequus 'even, equal' + animus 'mind, spirit'). It is a state of psychological stability and composure which is undisturbed by experience of or exposure to emotions, pain, or other phenomena that may cause others to lose the balance of their mind.

In Buddhism

In Buddhism, equanimity (upekkhā, upekṣhā) is one of the four sublime attitudes and is considered:

• The steady conscious realization of reality's transience.
• The protection from the allurement of the passions.
• The mind's release from the tyranny of the five hindrances.
• The ground for the higher spiritual faculties.

In Hinduism

In Hinduism, equanimity is a central concept in the Bhagavad Gita, where it is included as one of the divine qualities in Chapter 16. It is also seen as a divine quality in Chapter 14, where it is considered as a virtue that needs to be cultivated by the seeker of the ultimate Truth.

In Stoicism

In Stoicism, equanimity is seen as a mark of moral excellence. The Stoic philosopher Epictetus saw equanimity as the end result of a proper understanding of the world.

In Christianity

In Christianity, equanimity is seen as a result of deeply understanding the message of Jesus. It is a state of inner peace and serenity, which is undisturbed by worldly events.

See also

• Mindfulness
• Meditation
• Inner peace
• Stoicism
• Buddhism
• Hinduism
• Christianity

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