Why Good People Appreciate Others: The Noble Way of the Sappurisa | Calm Mind

Why Good People Appreciate Others: The Noble Way of the Sappurisa.

Introduction

    Have you ever found yourself thinking about someone even your neighbor, sibling, or even an old enemy and remembered something good they once did? That feeling, that mental reflection of their goodness, is not random. It's a sign of a rare and beautiful quality in you. That, my friend, is one of the noblest human characteristics being a sappurisa, a “good person” in the teachings of the Supreme Buddha.

In this article, let’s dive deep into this profound Dhamma quality the often-overlooked art of reflecting on others' good qualities, no matter how small they are. We'll explore why it's a cornerstone of a truly noble human life and how we can develop it in a world that often forgets the value of such subtle yet transformative thoughts.

What Does It Mean to Be a Sappurisa (Good Person)?

The Rarity of Goodness

Being a sappurisa is not about status, wealth, or even how long you meditate every day. It’s about your heart. Your attitude. Your ability to see and speak about the good in others especially when no one else notices.

While it might be impressive to master meditation or even develop psychic powers (like Devadatta, who had iddhi powers), the Buddha pointed out that these feats are still easier than becoming a true good person.

Why? Because deep down, developing a kind and reflective heart takes courage and wisdom. It’s not showy. It’s not glamorous. But it’s immensely powerful.

Why Reflecting on Others’ Goodness Is So Important

It Trains the Mind to Be Noble

Your mind becomes what it frequently thinks. So when you consistently recognize even small good deeds done by others especially loved ones, neighbors, even your rivals your mind naturally becomes more pure, kind, and loving.

Even remembering a time when someone offered you water on a hot day… or helped you once without expecting anything… these memories make your heart gentle and open.

Even Your Haters Have Done Good—Can You See It?

Yes, even enemies or difficult people have good sides. Maybe long ago, they helped you. Maybe they taught you something valuable through hardship. A sappurisa can remember even one good moment from that person and reflect on it kindly.

This doesn’t mean we ignore wrongdoings. But the noble heart doesn’t get stuck in hatred. It transcends it by focusing on virtue even hidden virtue.

The Sappurisa vs. The Asappurisa: A Beautiful Contrast

As Explained by the Supreme Buddha in Asappurisavadhuka Sutta

In this powerful Sutta, the Buddha explained four qualities to identify a Sappurisa and four to spot an Asappurisa (bad person).

Let’s break it down simply:

The Asappurisa (Bad Person):

1. If someone says something bad about another, he’ll agree and add more negativity.

2. If someone says something good, he hides it or pretends it doesn’t exist.

3. When asked to tell good qualities, he resists or says very little.

4. Loves gossip, slander, and negativity.

The Sappurisa (Good Person):

1. Does not speak badly about others even when prompted.

2. When asked, speaks truthfully about the good in others.

3. Often reflects on and praises others' good qualities even without being asked.

4. Builds harmony through speech.

Now ask yourself: who do you want to be?

How Can You Become a Sappurisa? Step by Step Guide

Associate With Noble Friends (Kalyana Mitta)

This is key. Noble friends lift your character. They teach by example. If you spend time with people who speak kindly, reflect deeply, and avoid gossip you’ll become like that too.

Listen to and Praise the Noble Dhamma

Spend time listening to Dhamma talks, reading suttas, or discussing teachings with mindfulness. The more you appreciate noble Dhamma, the more your heart reflects nobility.

Speak Good About Others Often Even Randomly

Yes! Don’t wait for a question. If your friend is kind, say it out loud. If your neighbor helped someone, mention it. Praise creates joy for both the speaker and the listener.

The Danger of Ignoring This Path: The Devadatta Lesson

Devadatta was a monk during the Buddha’s time. He developed superpowers like flying, changing his form, and more. But he was not a good man. His heart was proud, jealous, and full of hatred. He even attempted to harm the Buddha.

Despite his powers, he fell into hell after death.

This shows: spiritual power without a pure heart is dangerous. Being a Sappurisa protects your mind and destiny.

Everyday Examples of Being a Sappurisa

• Thinking about your spouse’s patience, even after a small argument.

• Appreciating a child’s smile or honesty.

• Remembering how your enemy once helped your father.

• Speaking kindly about your friend in their absence.

• Praising a sibling’s cooking, even if the dish isn’t perfect.

These moments build a pure heart.

But What If People Don’t Deserve It?

That’s the beauty of this path. You’re not doing it for them. You’re doing it for you. To make your mind peaceful, humble, and radiant.

The more you do it, the more natural it becomes. And soon, your whole life will reflect this nobility.

Common Mistakes on This Path

• Praising only those you like.

• Avoiding reflection due to ego.

• Using praise as flattery or manipulation.

Avoid these. Be genuine. Be consistent.

Train Your Speech: The Gateway to Your Heart

Every time you speak, ask:

"Is what I’m saying true, beneficial, and kind?"

If yes  say it. If not pause. This habit itself can transform your life.

Real Dhamma Practice Begins With Small Habits

Don’t wait to sit cross-legged in a forest to “practice Dhamma.” Start by appreciating your mother’s kindness. Your friend’s loyalty. Even a stranger’s smile.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait to Be a Good Person

You might never fly like Devadatta. But you can be someone far greater a Sappurisa. A person whose heart naturally seeks, praises, and cherishes goodness in others.

This is the noblest and most rare quality a human can develop. And it starts with a single thought:

“Wow, that person did something good.”

Start there. And keep going.

FAQs

Q1: What does "Sappurisa" mean in Buddhism?
A Sappurisa is a noble or good person who consistently reflects on others' good qualities, speaks kindly, and lives with virtue.

Q2: Can I still be a good person even if I’ve made mistakes?
Absolutely. Recognizing mistakes and choosing to reflect on good is the start of the Sappurisa path.

Q3: Why is praising others considered noble in Buddhism?
Because it develops humility, reduces jealousy, and builds harmony. It’s a powerful form of merit-making.

Q4: Is it okay to praise someone even if they did only one good thing?
Yes! Even one act of goodness is worthy of recognition. That’s how the Sappurisa mind works.

Q5: Can I practice this even if I’m not very religious?
Definitely. This is a human quality beyond religion. It improves your life, relationships, and peace of mind.

Namo Buddhaya!