[69] Ma (Sanscrit, Mârakâyikas) is the name given to a particular class of spirits who tempt men to evil. But in Japanese folklore the Ma have a part much resembling that occupied in Western popular superstition by goblins and fairies.
89.—Tanoshimi wa hanasimi no motoi.
All joy is the source of sorrow.
90.—Tondé hi ni iru natsu no mushi.
So the insects of summer fly to the flame.[[70]]
[70] Said especially in reference to the result of sensual indulgence.
91.—Tsuchi-botoké no midzu-asobi.
Clay-Buddha’s water-playing.[[71]]
[71] That is to say, “As dangerous as for a clay Buddha to play with water.” Children often amuse themselves by making little Buddhist images of mud, which melt into shapelessness, of course, if placed in water.
92.—Tsuki ni murakumo, hana ni kazé.
Cloud-wrack to the moon; wind to flowers.[[72]]
[72] The beauty of the moon is obscured by masses of clouds; the trees no sooner blossom than their flowers are scattered by the wind. All beauty is evanescent.
93.—Tsuyu no inochi.
Human life is like the dew of morning.
94.—U-ki wa, kokoro ni ari.
Joy and sorrow exist only in the mind.