Difference between revisions of "Mara"

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'''Lower sections of Secret Mantra''' ([[rgyud sde 'og ma]]). The [[Three Outer Tantras]]: [[Kriya]], [[Charya]]/[[Upa]], and [[Yoga Tantra]].
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'''Mara''' ([[bdud]]). Demon or demonic influence that creates obstacles for practice and enlightenment. Mythologically said be a powerful god who dwells in the highest abode in the [[Realms of Desire]]; the master of illusion who attempted to prevent the Buddha from attaining enlightenment at [[Bodhgaya]]. For the Dharma practitioner, [[Mara]] symbolizes one's own ego-clinging and preoccupation with the eight worldly concerns. Generally, there are [[Four Maras|four maras]] or obstructions to practice of the [[Dharma]]: those of defilements, death and the aggregates, and the godly mara of seduction. Sometimes the four maras are mentioned by name; Lord of Death, Godly Son, Klesha and Skandha.  
 
 
*[[Three Outer Tantras]]
 
  
 
[[Category:Key Terms]]
 
[[Category:Key Terms]]

Latest revision as of 05:00, 29 May 2007

Mara (bdud). Demon or demonic influence that creates obstacles for practice and enlightenment. Mythologically said be a powerful god who dwells in the highest abode in the Realms of Desire; the master of illusion who attempted to prevent the Buddha from attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya. For the Dharma practitioner, Mara symbolizes one's own ego-clinging and preoccupation with the eight worldly concerns. Generally, there are four maras or obstructions to practice of the Dharma: those of defilements, death and the aggregates, and the godly mara of seduction. Sometimes the four maras are mentioned by name; Lord of Death, Godly Son, Klesha and Skandha.