DCdyc> Given the actual Metta-bhaavanaa practice, of wishing well to all
DCdyc> sentient beings, I've often thought that "benevolence" would be the
DCdyc> most accurate translation. But "benevolence," being a latinate word,
DCdyc> isn't that evocative for native English-speakers. So I prefer the
DCdyc> traditional rendering as "loving kindness," with some kind of
DCdyc> footnote or explanation of the finer points the first time it's used.
'Benevolence' has a condescending shade.
I wonder why 'mettaa' is not translated as 'friendliness', since it's
roots are in 'mitta' - 'friend'.