Asura

Definition

In Buddhist cosmology, an asura is a type of supernatural being that is often depicted as powerful and fierce but also troubled and prone to jealousy. Asuras are considered to reside in a realm that is neither entirely divine nor fully demonic, reflecting their complex nature and the struggles they face in their existence. This duality connects them to the core principles of Buddhism, including the cycle of suffering and the quest for enlightenment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Asuras are known for their great strength and capabilities but are also characterized by their envy of the deva's happiness and power.
2. In Buddhist narratives, asuras often engage in battles with devas, symbolizing the internal struggle between positive and negative emotions.
3. The realm of asuras is depicted as one filled with conflict and dissatisfaction, illustrating the concept of suffering in Buddhist thought.
4. Despite their negative traits, asuras are not eternally condemned; they can evolve spiritually and seek to attain higher states of being through moral actions.
5. Asuras are a reminder of the inner turmoil that all beings experience and highlight the importance of overcoming negative emotions to achieve enlightenment.

Review Questions

• How do asuras embody the struggle between positive and negative qualities in Buddhist philosophy?
  • Asuras represent the conflict between positive qualities like strength and negative traits such as jealousy. Their existence illustrates the internal battle that individuals face within themselves as they strive for enlightenment. The narrative of asuras engaging in conflict with devas serves as a metaphor for overcoming negative emotions to attain peace and harmony.
• Discuss the significance of asuras in understanding the concept of suffering within Buddhism.
  • Asuras exemplify the theme of suffering central to Buddhist teachings. Their constant dissatisfaction and rivalry with devas reflect the struggles all beings face in their pursuit of happiness. This representation serves to emphasize that overcoming desires and negative emotions is essential for liberation from suffering and achieving enlightenment.
• Evaluate how the portrayal of asuras contributes to broader themes in Buddhist cosmology regarding morality and spiritual growth.
  • The portrayal of asuras highlights key themes of morality and spiritual evolution within Buddhist cosmology. Their fierce nature coupled with their capacity for transformation underlines that even powerful beings are not immune to negative emotions like envy. This complexity encourages practitioners to acknowledge their own inner demons while striving for ethical conduct and self-improvement, ultimately guiding them toward higher states of being and spiritual fulfillment.

Related terms

Deva: A deva is a benevolent celestial being in Buddhist cosmology, often associated with higher realms of existence and considered more enlightened than asuras.

Mara: Mara is a demon or tempter in Buddhism who represents the obstacles to enlightenment, often seen as a force that tries to distract practitioners from their spiritual goals.

Karma: Karma refers to the law of moral causation in Buddhism, where actions have consequences that affect future rebirths, impacting beings like asuras in their spiritual journey.