Fearlessness
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fearlessness
(無畏) (Skt vaisharadya; Jpn mui )
A quality of Buddhas and bodhisattvas. Buddhist scriptures often refer to the virtue of fearlessness, characterizing the Buddha as undaunted by any hardship, obstacle, or suffering, and as fearless in preaching. Buddhist scriptures set forth four kinds of fearlessness, or four fearlessnesses, that come into play while preaching the Law. Buddhist practitioners are required not only to be dauntless in their practice but also to give fearlessness, or security, to those who are in difficult conditions; in other words, to release them from affliction. Bodhisattva Perceiver of the World's Sounds, for example, is called Bestower of Fearlessness. See also four fearlessnesses.
