Significance of Evil One
Synonyms: Villain, Fiend, Monster, Malefactor, Scoundrel, Wicked one, Demon, Antagonist
In Finnish: Paha; In Malay: Jahat; In Swedish: Omde; In Dutch: Boze; In Spanish: Malvado; In German: Der B枚se; In Spanish: Maligno; In French: Le Malin
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Evil One'
The "Evil One" in Buddhism primarily embodies Mara, symbolizing temptation and obstacles to spiritual growth. This entity represents malevolent forces that divert individuals from enlightenment, making it crucial for practitioners to recognize and overcome these hindrances.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Another reference to Mara, highlighting his role as a challenger to the Buddha鈥檚 mission during his last days.[1] (2) Referring to Mara, a symbolic figure representing temptation and hindrances to enlightenment.[2] (3) Another name for Mara, representing the personification of temptation and hindrance on the spiritual path.[3] (4) A title referring to Mara, the dark force that attempted to disrupt the Buddha's mission.[4]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A term referring to Mara, who embodies all obstacles to spiritual progress and enlightenment.[5] (2) Individuals who engage in wicked acts and are displeased by the advice of wise individuals.[6] (3) Individuals who find it easy to commit wrongful actions.[7] (4) Refers to an individual who engages in evil actions or deeds, as seen in the context of the teachings on recognizing one's own actions.[8]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Mara, a personified force representing temptation and obstacles to spiritual progress.[9] (2) Refers to Mara, a figure representing temptation, desire, and obstacles that hinder spiritual progress.[10]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) An adversarial force or negative influence in spiritual contexts.[11] (2) Referring to Mara, who represents temptation and hindrance in the spiritual path.[12]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) The light of no vices even in the region of the Evil One is expedient means, indicating a state of purity even within the sphere of passion.[13] (2) This refers to the forces or beings that the bodhisattvas must overcome, with generosity being the means to conquer them completely.[14] (3) These are unable to get at the bodhisattva who is imperishable through the perfection of meditation and is near to the vessel filled with all the qualities of the Buddha.[15] (4) This being stated that the exposition of religion weakens all his forces, and promised to protect and guard the preachers of religion, vowing to not make hindrances.[16] (5) This term refers to those who are able to break something; however, the described thought is unbreakable by them, indicating that it is resilient and impervious to their influence, maintaining its integrity and strength.[17]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) A general term for malevolent beings or spirits that threaten individuals who do not possess the magical phrases.[18] (2) Refers to beings engaged in negative karmic actions that lead to suffering and hinder spiritual progress.[19]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A title referring to Mara, the antagonist who seeks to undermine the Buddha's mission by preventing the offering of alms.[20]
Hindu concept of 'Evil One'
In Hinduism, the "Evil One" encompasses immoral actions leading to destructive outcomes, the Asuras' malicious intent, sons lacking virtue, harmful omens, and an accusatory label used by Bharata against Kaikeyi in his discontent.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Referring to sons who lack virtue, as contrasted against the desire for one virtuous son by Lopamudra.[21]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) An accusatory term used by Bharata directed at Kaikeyi, reflecting his anger and disappointment.[22]
From: Bharadvaja-srauta-sutra
(1) Refers to inauspicious symbols or omens that are viewed as harmful and are wished to be defeated.[23]
The concept of Evil One in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Evil One" encapsulates various interpretations of malevolence, ranging from cultural references to individuals like Duryodhan, Hitler, and the Hawaldar, illustrating a spectrum of negativity associated with perceived threats and moral condemnation.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A term used to describe Duryodhan, who is viewed negatively for persecuting the Pandavas.[24] (2) This term refers to the Hawaldar, who is characterized by fear and concern upon seeing the tiger and feels threatened.[25] (3) Relatives or individuals who are perceived negatively for mocking Gora's family situation.[26]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A reference to malevolent forces or entities that are believed to influence individuals negatively.[27] (2) A term referring to an evil force or entity, historically used to justify the persecution of certain individuals.[28] (3) Refers to Hitler as someone who personifies malevolence due to his actions and ideologies.[29]