In my opinion with any temptation, greed, craving one becomes under the influence of Mara. Also when heavens seem tempting. Mara praises those realms, like bait thrown out for catching fish (SN2.30). Also if one strives for ones non-existence that is Mara’s influence. It is all in the sphere of craving; craving for sensual pleasure, for new existences or even for non-existence.
As long as we have cravings, anusaya, asava, samyojana, causes to be reborn in samsara again, Mara can be said to rule. A sotapanna is not yet free of causes for rebirth. He/she will come in the domain of Mara again. I think Mara’s power is weakened for a Sotapanna but still there.
When one does not see the need to end the causes for rebirth (to end asava, anusaya etc.) that is exactly what Mara wants because then that being will come in his domain again where he is the foremost ruler. It is as if he wants us to be his puppits.
And when one sees the need to end all causes for rebirth, to strive for Nibbana, like the Buddha did, Mara will obstruct such plans because he knows this person strives for the end of Mara’s rulership over him/her.
Siebe