The Legend of the Devas
Season 3, Episode 19: "Impmon's Last Stand"
The Legend
Henry's sensei (teacher) tells him about the legend of the Devas. Here is a transcript of that section:
Sensei: In Sanskrit writings
there's an ancient legend about a group of good spirits - the Devas. The old
writings state they battled the evil demon Asura, preventing him from fully
entering the world and conquering it. Or, at least, that's how the legend goes.
Henry: The Devas are good?
Sensei: That's a difficult
question.
Henry: How so?
Sensei: Well, there were those
that followed Asura, and they thought the Devas were evil. In a way, it's like
eating a gallon of ice cream.
Henry: Uh...huh...?
Sensei: Heh. Let me explain.
At first, it seems like a good idea, but your stomachache proves you wrong.
A change in perspective can make good appear evil or evil seem good. Now, does
that explanation clear things up for you?
Henry: Yes, sir. It does. Thank
you.
Sensei: Good. Want some ice
cream?
Origin of the Legend
The Devas are based on two things of ancient mythology: the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac (mentioned in the episodes) and the 12 Warriors of the Sanskrit and Buddhist writings. Here is a table of which animal and warrior corresponds to each Deva:
Zodiac Animal | Sanskrit Warrior | Deva |
Rat | Kumbhira | Kumbhiramon |
Ox | Vajra | Vajramon |
Tiger | Mihira | Mihiramon |
Rabbit | Antira | Antylamon |
Dragon | Majira | Majiramon |
Snake | Shandira | Sandiramon |
Horse | Indra | Indramon |
Sheep | Pajra | Pajiramon |
Monkey | Makura | Makuramon |
Rooster | Sindura | Sinduramon |
Dog | Catura | Caturamon |
Pig | Vikarala | Vikaralamon |