IN THIS LESSON

Power and Strife: A Realm Consumed by Envy and Endless Conflict.

The realm of the jealous gods, or Asuras, is a place of power and conflict. In this realm, beings are strong and mighty, but they are consumed by envy and anger. Buddhist psychology sees this realm as one of endless struggle, where beings constantly compete and fight, driven by jealousy of the gods above them. While they have strength, they lack peace, always striving but never satisfied. This realm teaches the dangers of letting envy and anger dominate our lives, reminding us that true happiness comes from letting go of such desires.

Check out Alan Watts discussing the adventurous dimensions we choose to play in PLAY ME

Additional Resources

Asuras are spirits found in Buddhist and Hindu cosmology. They are usually portrayed as power-hungry and lusty. Even the best of the Asura can be unpredictable and prone to mood swings, which makes them risky friends and dangerous enemies!. Asuras are sometimes classified as demons, and they have the appearance to match! Their skin is deep red or blue-green, and their hair is inky black. Four to six arms sprout from their bodies, as well as three heads, with faces pointing in opposite directions.
Part 2 in a continuing series on Buddhist Cosmology. In dialogue: Ajahn Sona and Ajahn Punnadhammo. Cosmology Book, free download:
https://www.arrowriver.ca/book/cosmoB ...
Ajahn Sona podcast:
https://anchor.fm/ajahn-sona
This episode:
https://anchor.fm/ajahn-sona/episodes ...

Jealous Gods

Additional Resources

Asuras

Jealous God Origin Stories