by dhamma savaka » Mon Jan 21, 2013 7:01 am
Hi,
I know this "story" appears in Jack Kornfield's "After the Ecstasy, the Laundry" as well as Thich Nhat Hanh's "Heart of Understanding" but I'm also sure that a Theravada monk who visited my city in the past year (or two) had also brought up this story. Of course, it could just be a story, but I don't see it as a joke story that is poking fun at the suttas (though it can appear funny) but instead has a powerful message about the things we learn from our "enemies"....and that we should welcome our enemies. Seeing how I've come across other suttas that might seem "crazy" or "ridiculous", I did not reject the possibility of this story being found in the suttas. I've also read from various sources about the numerous other times that Mara tries to tempt/"visits" the Buddha.
Metta,
Al