Abstract

As the greatness of Buddha is recognized, the demonic characteristic of Māra is generally recognized. In the traditional Buddhist scripture, the relationship between Buddha and Māra is described clearly. This paper will include legends and stories on Māra. Everything with demonic characteristics is something that possesses excess and cruelty. The hidden and aggressive demonic qualities of Māra, described in the Buddhist scripture, are different from the corresponding demonic characters of other religions. The conversation between Buddha and Māra described in the Scripture is respectful and kind. The excessive quality of Māra is not clearly shown. Episodes, where the relationship between devils and humans are explained in Buddhist Scripture, allow us to have different interpretations of their relationship. Contrasted with Buddha, Māra plays a role of a dark shadow. In Buddhist Scripture, through images and symbols, Māra means temptation, interference or death. These meanings are sometimes displayed or hidden in the relationship with Buddha. This paper aims at interpreting Māra’s common images, which see Māra, not as ugly or horrible being, but as a part of humans. According to Buddhist Scripture, humans are not the absolute or complete prisoners of Māra, but Māra is a part of humans. Māra is involved in human affairs more extensively than we think it is, and is deeply intertwined with human minds. This means that humans are beings which can do the good or evil as beings of free will. Humans can be liberated from Māra’s temptation if they want to; if they do not try it, they can be trapped by Māra’s demonic intention. Māra satisfactorily reveals its existence in a common way. I think the existence of Māra is essential for Buddha or his followers to complete their religious practices.