The Mara Within Each Person

Greed, Hatred, Delusion

We often think of Mara as a supernatural force outside of us, constantly tempting and obstructing the path of spiritual practice. But in the light of Buddhist wisdom, Mara is not far away—it resides within each of us, manifesting through three subtle yet powerful forms: Greed (Tham), Hatred (Sân), and Delusion (Si).

Venerable Minh Tue and the ascetic monastic group at the Bodhi Gaya sacred grounds, India

Greed is an insatiable craving—the desire to possess, to hold on, to always want more. It drives us to chase after external things: wealth, status, affection, power. At first, greed is like a drop of sweet honey, but the more we taste it, the hungrier we become, and the more restless the heart grows.

Hatred is a fire of anger that burns away reason. When hatred arises, we easily lose control, harming others and ourselves. A single word spoken in anger can break a deep bond; a single act in rage can bring lifelong regret. Hatred turns the heart cold, leaving no room for compassion or forgiveness.

Delusion is the fog of ignorance—not seeing the truth, not understanding the impermanence of life. It leads us to mistake illusion for reality, to cling to the self as truth, and to chase after false dreams thinking they will bring happiness. It is delusion that makes us turn away from the Dharma, living in confusion despite the presence of wisdom.

These three poisons don’t come from anyone else. They are the inner Mara, constantly challenging each mindful step we take. Without awareness and diligent practice, we easily become their servants—living in suffering without even realizing the way out.

Yet, it is also thanks to these very poisons that the practitioner has the chance to see clearly into their own heart, recognizing what still needs transformation. Instead of fearing or denying them, we learn to observe Greed as it arises, recognize Hatred as it flares up, and gently smile at Delusion when it clouds the mind. Each time we see a “Mara” within and do not follow it, we take one more step on the path to liberation.

The Buddha did not conquer Mara with swords or force, but with mindfulness and wisdom. The practitioner does not need to run away from the world, but rather turn inward to face themselves—where both darkness and light reside.

When Greed, Hatred, and Delusion are transformed into Ethical Conduct (Sīla), Concentration (Samādhi), and Wisdom (Paññā), then Mara becomes the teacher. Each defilement becomes a master, reminding us to live more mindfully, to love more deeply, and to walk more steadily through this ever-changing life.

Mara is also a teacher. If one overcomes the harsh trials he presents, one passes — attaining liberation. If not, one falls into a hell of one's own making.

Respectfully,

Admin Team

Email: Path.MinhTue@gmail.com 

MINH TUE PATH

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