Buddhists all over the world celebrate the Bodhi Day on the 8th December. This day honors the enlightenment of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha.
As Shakyamuni strove for final enlightenment Mara saw that if this would be accomplished his hold over men would be broken and the Buddha would be able to show men the WAY that liberates from suffering. Mara tried to distract Shakyamuni by sending hordes of demons to torment him but he did not fear them.
When that failed Mara sent his most beautifull daughter to seduce him but as she stands before Shakyamuni she is seen to be a ugly hag, where-upon Mara admits absolute defeat.
Shakyamuni moved his right (bhumisparsa mudra) hand from his lap to touch the ground, stating "the earth is my witness". This act of unwavering resolve caused Mara and his army of demons and temptresses to disperse, and Shakyamuni then experience his great enlightenment."
Happy Bodhi Day to all of you!
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