Kumbhanda is a type of powerful spirit that is considered a deity if they are good. Otherwise, we regard them as renegade spirits. According to the Atanatiya Sutta, Kumbhandas formed part of the celestial armies that guarded the heaven against the Asura. Therefore, good Kumbhandas reside in the lowest heaven named Cāturmahārājikakāyika, where they dine, sing, and indulge in wholesome merriments while staying vigilant against the Asura.

On the other hand, spirits who committed unwholesome actions were cast down from the heavens by the powerful leaders of those heavens. For example. Asuras were once residing in the 33 heavens until they became intoxicated and were exiled. In that manner, those Deva (ie. angels) became Asura (ie. demons)

Similarly, we learn that powerful spirits such as the Kumbhandas will be banished if they commit any offense or crime. For example, murder, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxication.

Kumbandha is a specific type of spirit and the evil ones have a tendency to steal people’s vitality and life force, Therefore, they disagree with their heavenly kings’ decision to abide by Buddhist precepts. And they absolutely despise anyone who observes wholesome morality. This is because it reminds them of why they become outcasts from the heavens. Being outcasts, evil Kumbandha usually resides in remote places and rarely interferes with human affairs.

The Evil Kumbhandas are traditionally depicted as mishappen spirits with huge sexual organs. Interestingly, we may see variations of figurines or images of such spirits being worshipped in various parts of the world, usually in shamanism and local folklore. Sometimes, people worship huge sexual organs for good health and fertility. Unknowingly, what they are doing is a form of pacifying prayers to the evil Kumbhandas so that these evil spirits will not steal their vitality. This is understandable since such remote places are led by spiritualists who have never encountered Dharma. Therefore, when faced with a powerful spirit, they try to strike a bargain with them.

Until here, we learn that a good Kumbandha is a wholesome spirit that resides in heaven. They are called Deva (ie. Angels). Whereas unwholesome Kumbhandas are exiled from their community and become known as Asura (ie. Demon)

So how does one become an Asura? The fallen deva? or the exiled angels?

One way is to be born as an angel or deva, do something bad and be exiled.

The other way is to be reborn into the realm of the Asura.

According to Buddhist scripture, the Asura is a demi-god or powerful spiritual entity that is afflicted by jealousy or envy.

From a spiritual perspective. We have to ask ourselves if we have the tendency to become a Kumbandha type of Asura in our next rebirth.

The Evil Kumbhanda Tendency: Stealing – Fame and Respect

In our pursuit of recognition and respect, some of us may unknowingly exhibit a tendency similar to that of the Evil Kumbhanda spirits. These spirits are known to steal the life force of others to sustain themselves. Similarly, we may try to “steal” the fame and respect of accomplished teachers or spiritual leaders by associating ourselves with them because of ulterior motives. An ulterior motive of gaining recognition and respect. At the heart of such actions lies our envy towards these famous masters.

Dropping Names and Showing Off

We may drop names of famous teachers or spiritual leaders, claiming to be their disciples, hoping to gain respect and recognition from others. We may also show off pictures of ourselves with these prominent individuals, trying to bask in their glory. Trying to prove to others that we have inherited their wisdom because we receive teachings from them. However, this behavior is a form of “stealing” the life efforts of these great masters. We are trying to reap the benefits of their hard work and dedication without putting in the same level of effort ourselves.

Pretending to be Spiritual

Another form of this stealing tendency is a layperson pretending to be spiritual by wearing Buddhist robes or using lots of spiritual jargon, hoping to gain respect from others. This too is a form of “stealing” – stealing the respect and admiration that true spiritual practitioners have earned through their dedication and hard work.

If our motivation and mind are impure while donning Dharma robes or Buddhist robes, then receiving even a single bow from somebody becomes a huge Dharmic debt on our part. So, it is best to examine ourselves carefully. Ask ourselves, “Why am I wearing Dharma robes or costumes when I am not even a monk or nun?” Do I really need to parade around in it?

The Importance of Motivation

Our motivation is crucial in determining whether we are conditioning our minds to “steal” or not. If we are not careful, we may find ourselves developing an evil Kumbhanda-like tendency, where we try to gain benefits without putting in the real effort. It is essential to reflect on our motivations and ensure that we are not trying to “steal” the fame, respect, or recognition of others.

Cultivating Genuine Respect

True respect and recognition come from genuine effort and dedication. Instead of trying to “steal” the fame of others, we should focus on cultivating our own accomplishments and spiritual growth. By doing so, we can earn the respect and admiration of others without resorting to pretenses or association.

May all be well and happy.