Asanga, the founder of Yogachara Buddhism, placed great emphasis on the role of compassion in his teachings. In fact, compassion is considered to be one of the fundamental principles of Yogachara Buddhism, alongside wisdom and mindfulness.

According to Asanga, compassion is the key to understanding the true nature of reality and achieving enlightenment. He believed that all beings, including ourselves, are inherently interconnected and that our suffering is a result of our ignorance and attachment to the illusion of a separate self.

In his teachings, Asanga emphasized the practice of bodhicitta, which is the mind of enlightenment or the aspiration to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. This practice is rooted in compassion and is essential for the spiritual development of an individual.

Asanga taught that compassion should not be limited to just feeling sympathy or empathy towards others, but it should also manifest in action. This means actively working towards alleviating the suffering of others and promoting their well-being.

One of the ways in which Asanga encouraged the cultivation of compassion was through the practice of the four immeasurables – loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity. These four qualities are seen as the foundation for developing a compassionate heart and mind.

In Yogachara Buddhism, compassion is also seen as a means to overcome the ego and self-centeredness. Asanga believed that by focusing on the well-being of others, we can transcend our own selfish desires and attachments, leading to a greater sense of inner peace and fulfillment.

Furthermore, Asanga also taught that compassion should be extended not only to humans but to all sentient beings, including animals and the environment. This is in line with the Buddhist principle of non-harming and the recognition of the interconnectedness of all life.

In conclusion, compassion plays a crucial role in Asanga's teachings as it is seen as the key to understanding reality, achieving enlightenment, and promoting the well-being of all beings. By cultivating compassion, one can overcome the ego and self-centeredness, leading to a more peaceful and harmonious existence. Asanga's teachings continue to inspire and guide practitioners towards a more compassionate and enlightened way of living.