As a sequel to the discourse (AN 5.161) where the Buddha expounded 5 ways of removing resentment, this is the second discourse on the same topic as taught by Venerable Sāriputta, who, amongst many qualities, is well known for his tolerance and forbearance. He listed 5 types of persons towards whom we should remove resentment when it has arisen, basically covering everyone in the world.
Bhante explained that we need skilful means to achieve this. All sufferings arise from the 3 poisons of greed, hatred, and delusion, which can be uprooted with the Noble Eightfold Path as taught by the Buddha. Besides having Right Understanding of how defilements arise and how they can be ended, we must also substitute the defilements with opposite qualities, hence Right Intention. To counter greed, the antidote is generosity; that of hatred is loving kindness; and that of delusion is understanding.
Bhante further explained about the 5 similes provided by Venerable Sāriputta in the sutta. They are pointing us to right perception, to see that all the unwholesome mental, verbal, and physical behaviours have the 3 poisons as root causes, and to recognise this fact as present in oneself and others. Hence, one can develop empathy in this way. Next, we should focus specifically on the positive aspects of a person, no matter how trifling they are. Finally, in doing so, we are developing the 4 Brahma Viharas of metta, karuna, muditā and upekkhā.
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