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**dAy2EWlg** · 06-19-2010, 03:34 PM

Mara as symbol in relation to Buddhist doctrine as well as metaphor

That's my take on Mara. That said, I don't don't wish in any way to demean the tremendous value of this portrayal within the suttas, as they speak to the heart. They are amongst my favorite suttas, as they clearly demonstrate the internal conflicts we all feel. The way he pours scorn on Buddha and his followers, the way he tells them there is no escape, is a very 'human' portrayal of the struggle all contemplatives must undergo.

These suttas have a unique power of their own, as we all react to symbol and myth in an deep and unconscious way.

The thought that there may be a genuine being called Mara who is pledged to undermine all efforts by whatever means is challenging. But if it prompts us to investigate all aspects of our lives and question if there is not somewhere where we are capitulating to Mara, then it's a good thing.

06-19-2010, 03:34 PM	#2
dAy2EWlg Join Date Oct 2005 Posts 370 Senior Member	Mara as symbol in relation to Buddhist doctrine as well as metaphor That's my take on Mara. That said, I don't don't wish in any way to demean the tremendous value of this portrayal within the suttas, as they speak to the heart. They are amongst my favorite suttas, as they clearly demonstrate the internal conflicts we all feel. The way he pours scorn on Buddha and his followers, the way he tells them there is no escape, is a very 'human' portrayal of the struggle all contemplatives must undergo. These suttas have a unique power of their own, as we all react to symbol and myth in an deep and unconscious way. The thought that there may be a genuine being called Mara who is pledged to undermine all efforts by whatever means is challenging. But if it prompts us to investigate all aspects of our lives and question if there is not somewhere where we are capitulating to Mara, then it's a good thing.
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