The Gay Buddhist Forum by GBF

The 4 Immeasurables in Song - Jennifer Berezan

GBF Season 29 Episode 32

How can we make the Four Immeasurables (aka the Brahmavihārās or divine abodes) more present in our daily lives?

In this talk, Jennifer Berezan explores these four virtues—loving-kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity—integral aspects of Buddhist practice. She emphasizes their universal relevance, encouraging us to cultivate these qualities to foster deeper connections and inner peace.

Jennifer enriches her discussion with musical interludes, using songs to embody each of the Four Immeasurables:

  1. Loving-kindness (Metta): Wishing happiness for all beings.
  2. Compassion (Karuna): Desiring freedom from suffering for everyone.
  3. Empathetic Joy (Mudita): Celebrating others' happiness.
  4. Equanimity (Upekkha): Maintaining calm and impartiality amidst life's ups and downs.

Through her music, Jennifer offers a heartfelt and accessible approach to these profound teachings, inviting listeners to integrate them into daily life.

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Jennifer Berezan is a unique blend of singer/songwriter, producer, and activist. Over the course of ten albums, she has developed and explored recurring themes with a rare wisdom. Her lifelong involvement in environmental, women’s, and other justice movements as well as an interest in Buddhism and earth-based spirituality are at the heart of her writing.

Find her at https://jenniferberezan.com/

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CREDITS
Audio Engineer: George Hubbard
Producer: Tom Bruein
Music/Logo/Artwork: Derek Lassiter