In short: mettā means loving-kindness: a warm wish for every being's happiness, offered without conditions. Its classic expression: "May they be happy and safe! May all beings be happy!" (Snp 1.8).
♡ Like a mother's love
"Even as a mother would protect with her life her child, her only child, so too for all creatures unfold a boundless heart."
Snp 1.8 · The Discourse on Love
☾ First benefit
"You sleep at ease. You wake happily. You don't have bad dreams."
AN 11.15 · All eleven
How to practice · Start with yourself
All terms · 3 minutes of practice
Questions people ask
What does metta mean?
Mettā means loving-kindness or love: a wish for the happiness of all beings. 'May all beings be happy!' (Snp 1.8).