Compassion vs. Rigor

Compassion is the Buddhist wish for suffering’s end not only for the self, but also for all others. It goes hand in hand with loving-kindness (the wish for others’ happiness) and empathetic joy (happiness at others’ good fortune). Rigor is the Buddhist’s adherence to the religion’s many strictures — and their encouraging others to do the same. While these laws vary between denominations, every form of Buddhism calls on the individual to study carefully, work hard, and challenge themself in pursuit of enlightenment.