"Besides the absolutely necessary 'aversions and observ-
ances' above mentioned, the transgression of which must lead
to misery in the next existence, there are certain virtues or
'perfections' of a .sn|iererogatory stoi'y or transcendent kind,
that tend directly to ' conduct to the other shore' (NirAana).
The most essential of these are almsgiA'ing or charity, purit}',
patience, courage, contemplation, and knowledge. Charity or
benevolence niay be said to tie the characteristic virtue of
Buddhism, — a charity boundless in its self-abnegation, and
extending to e^'ery sentient lieing. The benevolent actions
done by the Bnddha himself, in the course of his many mill-
ioirs of migrations, were favorite themes with his followers.
