The Temptation of Mara

The Temptation of Mara

Ajanta Caves,Gupta Period, 5th Century CE

            Generally the walls of a Chaitya Halls are covered with beautiful paintings.  But there is one hall which has beautiful sculptures all around the apse.  The Archeological Survey of India, which maintains the Ajanta Caves, has beautifully illuminated the sculptures. The sculptures cover various events of Buddha's life.  

            While Buddha sat in deep meditation, he was tempted by Mara, a demon. Mara sent his army of goblins to torment Buddha; he also sent his beautiful daughter to tempt Buddha. We see his army of goblins in the right; his beautiful daughters in the front. But despite the torments and temptations, Buddha was steadfast in his meditation

             Temptation is part of human nature. We easily get tempted by material things or by sexual desire. Thus, temptation finds mention in all the major religions of the world. While we meditate the unconscious fears and desires come out. This is depicted in myths, and the art as temptation.  

            A hero is one who does not succumb to temptation.  Many of us abandon our duty to be honest and yield to the temptation of material wealth. We give into corruption.  A nation, like a person, who gives into temptation, can never reach Nirvana.