.jpg "Mara interfered in the Prince’s renunciation")
The devas escorted the Prince who had left the city at midnight.
But Mara, a deva who never favored any good deed, stood in front of the Prince. “Prince, do not take to the forst, It is only seven days before you are to become the King of the Universe. Please go back to the palace. Please go back”, Mara said.
The Prince replied, “Oh, Mara. I do not want to become King of the Universe. I want to become King of the Dharmma, who can bring peace to all celestial beings.” Thus overcoming Mara’s interference, the Prince continued riding.
Concepts and terminology:
Deva (De-va) : Celestial beings that are more powerful and live longer than human beings. They have angelic forms and possess maigical powers. They are not gods, and are neither omniscient, omnipotent, nor morally perfect. Link: Wikipedia
Mara (Ma-ra): An evil deva. The lord of misfortune, destruction and death. Links: Wikipedia