On one occasion the Blessed One was dwelling among the Kosalans at the brahmin village of Ekasala. Now on that occasion the Blessed One was teaching the Dhamma surrounded by a large assembly of laypeople.

Then it occurred to Mara the Evil One: “This ascetic Gotama is teaching the Dhamma while surrounded by a large assembly of laypeople. Let me approach the ascetic Gotama in order to confound them.”

Then Mara the Evil One approached the Blessed One and addressed him in verse:

“This is not suitable for you,
That you instruct others.
When so engaged don’t get caught
In attraction and repulsion.”

The Blessed One:

“Compassionate for their welfare,
The Buddha instructs others.
The Tathagata is fully released
From attraction and repulsion.”

Then Mara the Evil One … disappeared right there.