On Sunday, one of the deadliest mass shootings in the history of the United States occurred at an outdoor music festival in Las Vegas, leaving at least 59 dead and injuring more than 520. Buddhist teachers, communities, and politicians took to social media to share messages of compassion and solidarity. A sample of those messages follows:

I am deeply saddened by the tragic acts of violence committed in Las Vegas yesterday. More and more, these challenging… Posted by Sakyong Mipham on Monday, October 2, 2017

May the loving prayers sent to those who have passed soothe the shock and carry them

forward on their journey. May we… Posted by Pema Khandro on Tuesday, October 3, 2017

“We must not allow senseless violence to define our era. This is our challenge.” Posted by SGI-USA(Official) on Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Metta to all. May we be free from violence and the causes of violence…. Posted by Spirit Rock Meditation Center on Monday, October 2, 2017

Sending chants for the well being of all those impacted by today’s violent events. 😭 #LasVegasShootings — Konin Cardenas (@1weachthing) October 2, 2017

Being human is so complex, filled with contradictions, yet fragile and filled with beauty and kindness. — Kenley Neufeld (@kenleyneufeld) October 3, 2017

So many challenging and difficult events occurred yesterday; I wonder what today will bring? Practicing equanimity in a field of suffering. — Kenley Neufeld (@kenleyneufeld) October 3, 2017

Returning from the remoteness of Dolpo & hearing the news of the massacre in Las Vegas, my heart turns toward the victims of violence, their families and friends. — Joan Halifax (@jhalifax) October 2, 2017

As you start you day, please take a moment to pray for all impacted by the terrible tragedy in #LasVegas last night. #PrayForLasVegas — Lama Surya Das (@LamaSuryaDas) October 2, 2017

My thoughts this morning are with Nevadans. Hawaii sends our aloha to Las Vegas, our ninth island community. — Senator Mazie Hirono (@maziehirono) October 2, 2017

“Who wishes to see a Buddha, Sangháta is equivalent to a Buddha. Wherever the Sangháta is, always there the Buddha is.” #LasVegasShootings — Drums of Dharma (@drumsofdharma) October 2, 2017

Sending love and healing to #LasVegas this morning. — Tricycle Magazine (@tricyclemag) October 2, 2017

My heart goes out to the people of #LasVegas. America stands with you. — Rep. Hank Johnson (@RepHankJohnson) October 2, 2017

It’s a devastating time. Gratitude to @LVMPD, all 1st responders. Way past time for serious nat’l conversation on gun violence in America. — Rep. Hank Johnson (@RepHankJohnson) October 2, 2017

Shocked by yet another shooting, this time in #LasVegas . Prayers to those suffering and affected by the senselessness. — Colleen Hanabusa (@RepHanabusa) October 2, 2017