rakshasa | राक्षस

Rakshasa (Devanagari: राक्षस ISO15919: rākṣasa) refers to a being in whom the Tamas guna of Maya (mode of ignorance) of Maya is predominant.

They possess many supernatural powers; however, being inherently malevolent, they use these powers to harm others. They are the natural enemies of the devatas (celestial gods). Their primary abode is Rasatal, and their spiritual preceptor is Guru Sukracharya.

Mighty examples of such demons include Hiranyakashipu, Ravana, King Bali, Mayasur, and Narkasur.

Further Reading and Reference

• Related Concepts: manav
• Reference: Prema Rasa Siddhanta - Philosophy of Divine Love, Ch. 11