Mara

A forum for beginners and members of other Buddhist traditions to ask questions about Theravāda (The Way of the Elders). Responses require moderator approval before they are visible in order to double-check alignment to Theravāda orthodoxy.
Post Reply
User avatar
Jay1
Posts: 30
Joined: Wed Jan 30, 2013 11:37 pm

Mara

Post by Jay1 »

Why doesn't Mara decide to become enlightened? I mean, he has met Buddha and seen his happiness, etc.

:namaste:
Goob
Posts: 98
Joined: Thu Aug 05, 2010 5:14 pm

Re: Mara

Post by Goob »

Because he's a symbolic representation of desire and doubt and shouldn't be taken as a literal being?
User avatar
DNS
Site Admin
Posts: 17231
Joined: Tue Dec 30, 2008 4:15 am
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada, Estados Unidos de América
Contact:

Re: Mara

Post by DNS »

If he is a real being (and yes, it is always a he -- male being), then yes, he can get enlightened. According to the story / mythology, it is an "office holder" position, not a permanent being. Someone just as deluded in desire and ego will come along to take his place. All beings in all realms are subject to samsara and the titled positions change as one goes up or down and another "person" takes his place.
User avatar
Jay1
Posts: 30
Joined: Wed Jan 30, 2013 11:37 pm

Re: Mara

Post by Jay1 »

David N. Snyder wrote:If he is a real being (and yes, it is always a he -- male being), then yes, he can get enlightened. According to the story / mythology, it is an "office holder" position, not a permanent being. Someone just as deluded in desire and ego will come along to take his place. All beings in all realms are subject to samsara and the titled positions change as one goes up or down and another "person" takes his place.
That makes sense, thanks.

:namaste:
Post Reply