If Viradha Can’t Be Killed by Weapons, What Do “Weapons” Mean?

Question

In one place it’s written that the demon Viradha cannot be killed by weapons. If “asura” means our negative thoughts, then what do “weapons” symbolize here? What weapons do we actually have? We have the weapons of qualities (virtues) or the weapons of knowledge. Qualities and knowledge aren’t really separate. Suppose someone abuses me. Then which weapon should I use? Either I don’t abuse back and stay calm—that means I use the weapon called peace. Or I use the weapon called forgiveness. So if someone abuses me, what are the weapons I have to protect myself? If I answer abuse with abuse, that becomes a never-ending process.

Answer

“Weapons” here symbolize our own inner resources—virtues and knowledge. In practice, that means choosing peace or forgiveness instead of reacting in kind. Replying to abuse with abuse only keeps the cycle going without end.