Anger can become a harmful pattern, causing us to perceive negativity and react aggressively even in neutral situations. Though anger serves to warn of threats, motivate actions, and defend boundaries, chronic anger raises stress, narrows thinking, damages relationships, and lead

To transform anger, self-reflection, willingness to change, and compassionate support are essential. The 8th century Buddhist teacher Shantideva offers profound guidance on responding to rage with patience and wisdom. Integrating his teachings can help both the angry person and t

What Sustains Chronic Anger?

Shantideva recognizes many factors that contribute to habitual anger including unresolved trauma, distorted thinking patterns, exposure to rage in childhood, biological tendencies, and lack of healthy coping skills. These coalesce to create a self-perpetuating cycle of anger bege

Often anger masks hurt. When we feel threatened or wronged, anger arises to defend against emotional pain. But reacting aggressively distracts from compassionately addressing those root wounds.

The Power of Compassion

Attacking anger with criticism or condemnation often backfires by eliciting defensiveness and escalating the anger cycle.

Shantideva stressed meeting rage with empathy. He advised cultivating compassion by connecting to our shared humanity and wishing to alleviate the roots of others’ suffering.

Compassion skilfully:

- Addresses the hurt beneath anger rather than reacting to surface behaviour