The "demon" that tempted the Buddha is famous, and other religious figures often refer to "demons." However, "demons" or "evil spirits" are not things with a physical form; they are essentially desires (ego). Therefore, they do not have actual power, but they are called "demons" because they lead people astray.

There are clear "demons" in terms of thought and choice, but there are also "demons" that are very cleverly hidden. The stories passed down from the Buddha are easy to understand because they are well-known, and they serve as a lesson. However, in reality, for ordinary people, these "demons" are usually difficult to understand. They are cleverly hidden in each person's way of life and worldview, and are altered, justified, and, in a sense, the desires (ego) deceive the true self (the true self that seeks truth).

This is also a resistance of the ego. However, as one meditates and the ego loses its power, there are still things that need to be protected (such as false pride), or more plausible arguments that pursue worldly benefits. "Pride" may seem like a good thing, but true pride is rare. Most of the time, it is actually a manifestation of ego.

Recently, I also had a similar realization, albeit a small one. The "demons" that are easy to understand, like those in the stories passed down from the Buddha, are easy to understand because they are well-known. However, the actual "demons" are very difficult to understand. It took me some time to realize that there were times when "demons" had infiltrated to justify my actions.

On the surface, the arguments seem very reasonable, and at first glance, they do not seem like excuses. However, from the perspective of seeking truth, they are actually just excuses, and they were often just pursuing worldly benefits, killing time, or simply an extension of a hobby.

First of all, there is a foundation of living according to the morals or guidelines set by a particular school of thought. However, the important thing is how much one can prevent "demons" from entering through arguments that sound reasonable.

Personally, I think that even if that is the case, if one has a certain foundation, one should be able to notice "something is wrong." I think it is just a matter of whether it is early or late.

It is possible for others to point it out, but in reality, this cannot change unless one is aware of it oneself. Therefore, it seems to be a matter of degree. Even if it is pointed out in counseling, it is often forgotten and ignored until one clearly realizes it oneself. Such subtle and difficult things are "demons."

In reality, this "devil" only possesses a small amount of power. However, even with that, if one accepts it, their actions change, leading them in strange directions or causing them to take detours from the truth. Therefore, even though it may not have much power itself, it is a rather frightening existence.

However, if one continues to live a life of desire, this devil will grow and gain great power, making it impossible to resist desire. Therefore, even though it originally possesses only a weak power, it can sometimes control the body, which is a frightening aspect.