Mara The Evil One

The Holy One directed his steps to that blessed Bodhi-tree

beneath whose shade he was to accomplish his search.



As he walked, the earth shook and a brilliant light transfigured

the world.



When he sat down the heavens resounded with joy and all living

beings were filled with good cheer.



Mara alone, lord of the five desires, bringer of death and enemy

of truth, was grieved and rejoiced not. With his three daughters,

Tanha, Raga and Arati, the tempters, and with his host of evil

demons, he went to the place where the great samana sat. But

Sakyamuni heeded him not.



Mara uttered fear-inspiring threats and raised a whirlwind so

that the skies were darkened and the ocean roared and trembled.

But the Blessed One under the Bodhi-tree remained calm and feared

not. The Enlightened One knew that no harm could befall him.



The three daughters of Mara tempted the Bodhisatta, but he paid

no attention to them, and when Mara saw that he could kindle no

desire in the heart of the victorious samana, he ordered all the

evil spirits at his command to attack him and overawe the great

muni.



But the Blessed One watched them as one would watch the harmless

games of children. All the fierce hatred of the evil spirits was

of no avail. The flames of hell became wholesome breezes of

perfume, and the angry thunderbolts were changed into

lotus-blossoms.



When Mara saw this, he fled away with his army from the

Bodhi-tree, whilst from above a rain of heavenly flowers fell,

and voices of good spirits were heard:



"Behold the great muni! his heart unmoved by hatred. The wicked

Mara's host 'gainst him did not prevail. Pure is he and wise,

loving and full of mercy.



"As the rays of the sun drown the darkness of the world, so he

who perseveres in his search will find the truth and the truth

will enlighten him."