The Devil and the Ego
Question
Hi, is the devil, mara and the ego the same? In ancient stories many sages like Buddha, Jesus were tempted by the devil or Mara before enlightnment. In the case of Buddha it was with lust and Jesus it was material wealth. Was not the devil in those stories their own ego's problems? This duality between good and evil comes in my opinion from the departure of the mind from the source.
Answer
Yes, the devil is nothing but one's own 'Ahamkara' (Ego), while the 'Atman' (one's self) is God. To overcome identity with the Ego, so as to merge into one's self is the aim of all religions and spiritual practices. Then, the self, which is no different from the Lord, alone remains. It is of the nature of truth, pure being and eternal bliss.
ॐ तत् सत्
(That Supreme being is the absolute truth)