ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Mara (Hindu goddess)

Mara is a Hindu goddess who represents the power of destruction or death. She is often depicted as a fierce warrior with multiple arms, carrying weapons and wearing a crown of skulls. This might sound scary, but she actually has an important role in Hindu beliefs.

Think of Mara as a superhero that fights against evil forces. In Hindu mythology, she is tasked with defeating demons and protecting the world from their harm. Her weapons and fierce appearance make her a formidable opponent for any evil beings.

But why is her job important? Well, in Hindu beliefs, everything in the world has a cycle. Everything is born, lives, and eventually dies. This includes humans, animals, and even the universe itself. If there were no forces of destruction or death, everything would just keep living on and on without any change. And change is important for growth and progress.

So, Mara represents the necessary force of destruction that allows for new things to be born and grow. For example, a forest fire may seem destructive, but it also clears the way for new growth and allows new plants to thrive. Mara performs a similar role in the universe.

Overall, Mara might seem scary, but she actually represents an important role in the balance of the world. She fights against evil forces and represents the necessary force of destruction that allows for new growth and progress.