28 Star Deities, 28 Constellations, Lunar Mansion, Moon Stations, Pole Star, Big Dipper in Japanese Buddhism

Free Email Newsletter Buddha Blog & RSS Feed A2Z Twitter & Facebook Contact Site AuthorLast Update: Feb. 2012 -- added video Search A-to-Z Twenty-Eight Constellations 28 Moon Lodges, 28 Lunar Mansions 28 Deities in Shingon & Tendai Mandalas Little / Big Dipper & Pole Star Deity My!ken Bosatsu Jp. = 二十八宿 = Nij"hasshuku Chn. = 二十八宿 = èrshíb# sù Skt. = Nak$atra (or) A$%#-vi&'ati nak$atr#(i WHAT'S HERE North Seven South Seven East Seven West Seven 28 Mantras Big Dipper Mandala Genzu Mandala My!ken - Pole Star Nine Planets / Dieties Seven Big Dipper Dieties Glossary Resources RELATED PAGES Four Celestial Emblems Four Heavenly Kings Star Mandalas 12 Zodiac Mansions 12 Generals of Yakushi 28 Legions of Kannon 28 Benefits from Jiz! Video presentation by scholar Bernard Faure (Columbia Univ). Under the Gaze of the Stars: Astral Mandalas in Medieval Japan. From the NY Met. Held in conjunction with the exhibition Japanese Mandalas: Emanations and Avatars, June 18 - Nov. 29, 2009. Share QUICK START Home: What's New Buddha's Teachings History & Timeline Historical Buddha Student's Guide Teacher's Guide DEITY GUIDES Who's Who Buddha Bodhisattva Myo-o Shinto Kami Shugendo Stars & Planets Tenbu (Deva) OTHER GUIDES About Site Author Bibliography Buddhism in Japan Busshi Glossary Carving Techniques Cycle of Suffering Drapery/Robe Guide Mandala Guide Mudra Guide Objects Guide Pilgrimage Guide Shinto Guide Statues by Artist Statues by Era Symbols Guide Terminology CELESTIAL DEITIES, HEAVENLY STARS An astrological grouping from ancient India that refers to 27 or 28 points that the moon passes through in one month and the associated star constellations found in the cosmic background. Each of these points (constellations) is associated with a deity, although the point-deity association varies among nations and sects. A similar grouping of 28 was developed independently in China. The Chinese merged their system with that from India following the introduction of Buddhism to China around the 1st and 2nd centuries CE. Unlike India, the grouping in China was always 28. It is the Chinese system that was imported by the Japanese. The 28 moon lodges or 28 lunar mansions (as they are often called in English) are divided into four clusters, with each cluster made up of seven constellations. The four clusters represent the four cardinal directions (north, south, east, west). Each cluster is associated with one of Four Celestial Emblems Guarding the Four Cardinal Directions (turtle, red bird, dragon, white tiger), a Buddhist guardian deity (the Four Heavenly Kings Guarding the Four Compass Directions), a season, a color, and numerous other attributes. These associations and attributes are presented below. In Japan, the 28 deities of the 28 moon lodges are often represented in the Big Dipper Mandala (Hokuto Mandara 北斗曼荼羅) and Star Mandala (Hoshi Mandara 星曼荼羅) of Japan's esoteric sects. The great complexity of Asian astronomy and Buddhist cosmology gets even more complicated, for there is no single standard for classifying and deifying the celestial bodies. Below, for each of the four clusters, we feature two of the most common groupings of the 4 X 7 = 28 matrix. Star Mandala 星曼荼羅 Modern Japanese Reproduction Ichijikinrin Butch! 一字金輪仏頂 at center. Seven Stars of Big Dipper, plus the Nine Planets, appear in inner section. A TO Z INDEX Twelve Zodiac Animals appear in middle section. A TO Z INDEX 3 Element Stele 3 Monkeys 4 Bosatsu 4 Celestial Emblems 4 Heavenly Kings 5 (Number Five) 5 Elements 5 Tathagata 5 Tier Pagoda 5 Wisdom Kings 6 Jizo 6 Kannon 6 Realms 6 Nara Schools 7 Lucky Gods 7 Nara Temples 8 Legions 8 Zodiac Patrons 10 Kings of Hell 12 Devas 12 Generals 12 Zodiac Animals 13 Butsu (Funerals) 28 Legions 28 Constellations 30 Buddha of Month 30 Kami of Month 33 Kannon About the Author Agyo Aizen Amano Jyaku Amida Nyorai Apsaras Arakan (Rakan) Arhat (Rakan) Ashuku Nyorai Asuka Era Art Tour Asura (Ashura) Baku (Eats Dreams) Bamboo Benzaiten (Benten) Bibliography Big Buddha Birushana Nyorai Bishamon-ten Bodhisattva Bonbori Artwork Bosatsu Group Bosatsu of Mercy Bosatsu on Clouds Buddha (Historical) Buddha Group Buddha Statues Busshi (Sculptors) Calligraphy Celestial Emblems Celestial Maidens Children Patrons Classifying Color Red Confucius Contact Us Daibutsu Daijizaiten Daikoku-ten Dainichi Nyorai Daruma (Zen) appear in middle section. 28 Celestial Maidens appear in outer section. More photos below. Photo at left from this J-site NORTH Seven Lunar Mansions of the Tortoise (Two Common Japanese Groupings for Seven Northern Moon Lodges) GENBU 玄武 (Tortoise) Black, Winter Water, Cold, Void GROUPING ONE - CHINA, JAPAN Northern Moon Lodges Japanese Reading | Chinese | Sanskrit Source: Shukuy!-ky! 宿曜経 GROUPING TWO - JAPAN Deities in GENZU MANDALA 現図曼荼羅 Shingon/Tendai Deities (Celestial Females) Jp. Reading | Chinese | (Sanskrit) | Deity Name 1 Toshuku 斗宿 Uttara-A"#$h# 2 Gy%shuku 牛宿 Abhijit 3 Joshuku 女宿 &rava'# 4 Kyoshuku 盧宿 &ravi"(ha (Dhani"(h#) 5 Kishuku 危宿 &atabhi"# 6 Shisshuku 室宿 P%rva-Pro"(hapada 7 Hekishuku 壁宿 Uttara-Pro"(hapada 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Kyoshuku 虚宿 (Dhanistha) 愛財天 Kishuku 危宿 (Satabhisaj) 百薬天 Shisshuku 室宿 (Purvabhadrapada) 賢鉤天 Hekishuku 壁宿 (Uttara-bhadrapada) 百辞天 Keishuku 奎宿 (Revati) 多羅天 R!shuku 婁宿 (Asvini) 阿湿毘「イ＋爾」天 Ishuku 胃宿 (Bharani) 満者天 TURTLE'S BUDDHIST COUNTERPART = BISHAMONTEN 毘沙門天 Star Chart by Steve Renshaw & Saori Ihara KEY TO BELOW LIST (corresponds to left column above) Chinese | Meaning | Jp. Star Reading | Sanskrit Spelling | (Western Constellation) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 斗, 牛, 女, 虚, 危, 室, 壁, Dipper / Measure, Hikitsu Boshi, Uttara-A"#$h# (Phi Sgr, Sagittrius) Cow / Ox, Inami Boshi, Abhijit (Beta Cap, Capricorn) Female, Uruki Boshi, &rava'# (Epsilon Aqr, Aquarius) Emptiness, Tomite Boshi, &ravi"(h# / Dhani"(h# (Beta Aqr, Aquarius) Roof Top, Umiyame Boshi, &atabhi"# (Alpha Aqr, Aquarius/Pegasus) Room / Encampment, Hatsui Boshi, P%rva-Pro"(hapada (Alpha Peg, Pegasus) Wall, Namame Boshi, Uttara-Pro"(hapada (Gamma Peg, Pegasus) NORTH Seven Celestial Maidens in Northern Cluster, Genzu Mandala 現図曼荼羅 Shingon Sect of Esoteric Japanese Buddhism. Click image to enlarge. Source: Museum Reihokan Koyasan (J-Site, Shingon) Daruma (Zen) Datsueba (Hell Hag) Deva (Tenbu) Donations Dosojin Dragon Drapery (Robes) Early Buddhism Japan Ebisu Eight Legions En no Gyoja Estores Family Tree Footprints of Buddha Fox (Oinari) Fudo (Fudou) Myoo Fugen Bosatsu Fujin (Wind God) Fukurokuju Gakko & Nikko Gardens Gigeiten Godai Nyorai Goddess of Mercy Goddesses Gongen Gravestones Hachi Bushu Hachiman Hands (Mudra) Hell (10 Judges) Hell Hag (Datsueba) Hell Scrolls Henge Hikyu (Lion Beast) Holy Mountains Ho-o (Phoenix) Hotei Idaten Ishanaten Ishidoro (Ishidourou) Jikokuten Jizo Bosatsu Jocho Busshi Juni Shi Juni Shinsho Juni Ten Junrei (Pilgrimage) Jurojin Juuzenji Jyaki or Tentoki Kaikei Busshi Kankiten Kannon Bosatsu Kappa Kariteimo (Kishibojin) Karura Karyoubinga Kendatsuba Kichijouten Kitchen Gods Kishibojin (Kariteimo) Kitsune (Oinari) Kokuzo Bosatsu Koujin (Kojin) Komokuten Koushin Lanterns (Stone) 1 愛財天 2 百薬天 3 賢鉤天 4 百辞天 5 多羅天 6 阿湿毘 「イ＋爾」 天 7 満者天 SOUTH Seven Lunar Mansions of the Red Bird (Two Common Japanese Groupings for Seven Southern Moon Lodges) SUZAKU 朱雀 (Red Bird) South, Red Summer, Fire GROUPING ONE - CHINA, JAPAN Southern Moon Lodges Japanese Reading | Chinese | Sanskrit Source: Shukuy!-ky! 宿曜経 GROUPING TWO - JAPAN Deities in GENZU MANDALA 現図曼荼羅 Shingon/Tendai Deities (Celestial Females) Jp. Reading | Chinese | (Sanskrit) | Deity Name 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Seishuku 井宿 Punarvasu Kishuku 鬼宿 Ti"ya (or Pu"ya) Ry#shuku 柳宿 A$le"% Seishuku 星宿 Magh% Ch!shuku 張宿 P#rva-Phalgun& Yokushuku 翼宿 Uttara-Phalgun& Shinshuku 軫宿 Hast% 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Seishuku 星宿 (Magha) 摩伽天 Ch!shuku 張宿 (Purva-phalguni) 間錯天 Yokushuku 翼宿 (Uttara-phalguni) 果徳天 Shinshuku 軫宿 (Hasta) 阿悉多天 Kakushuku 角宿 (Citra) 質多羅天 K!huku 亢宿 (Svati) 自記天 Teishuku てい宿 (Visakha) 尾捨「イ＋去」天 RED BIRD'S BUDDHIST COUNTERPARTS = PHOENIX 鳳凰 & Z!CH!TEN 増長天 Star Chart by Steve Renshaw & Saori Ihara KEY TO BELOW LIST (corresponds to left column above) Chinese | Meaning | Jp. Star Reading | Sanskrit Spelling | (Western Constellation) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 井, 鬼, 柳, 星, 張, 翼, 軫, Well, Chichiri Boshi, Punarvasu (Mu Gem, Gemini) Ogre/Demon, Tamahome Boshi, Ti"ya/Pu"ya (Delta Cnc, Theta Cnc, Cancer) Willow, Nuriko Boshi, A$le"% (Delta Hya, Hydra) Star, Hotohori Boshi, Magh% (Alpha Hya, Alphard) Stretched Net, Chiriko Boshi, P#rva-Phalgun& (Nu Hya, Crater) Wings, Tasuki Boshi, Uttara-Phalgun& (Alpha Crt, Corvus) Chariot Cross-Board, Mitsukake Boshi, Hast% (Gamma Crv, Corvus) SOUTH Seven Celestial Maidens in Southern Cluster, Genzu Mandala 現図曼荼羅 Shingon Sect of Esoteric Japanese Buddhism. Click image to enlarge. Source: Museum Reihokan Koyasan (J-Site, Shingon) 摩伽天 1 間錯天 2 果徳天 3 阿悉多天 4 質多羅天 5 自記天 6 尾捨 「イ＋去」天 7 Sagittrius) EAST Seven Celestial Maidens in Eastern Cluster. 心. Antares) Tail.CHINA. Eta Sgr. P(rva-A#"dh" (Gamma Sgr. 亢. 房. 6. 3. Scorpius) Basket. Pi Scho. Blue-Green Spring. Rohi&' or Jye#$haghn' or Jye#$h" (Sigma Sco. Star Reading | Sanskrit Spelling | (Western Constellation 1. Click image to enlarge. Ami Boshi. 角. Virgo) Root or Shoulder. Tomo Boshi. Libra) Heart. Su Boshi. Ni#$y" or Sv"ti (Kappa Vir. 尾. 5. 4. Jye#$haghn' 6 Bishuku 尾宿 M(labarha&' (or M(la) 7 Kishuku 箕宿 P(rva-A#"dha 1 B!shuku 昴宿 (Krttika) 作者天 2 Hisshuku 畢宿 (Rohini) 木者天 3 Shishuku 觜宿 (Mrgasiras) 烏頭天 4 Sanshuku 参宿 (Ardra) 米湿天 5 Seishuku 井宿 (Punarvasu) 服財天 6 Kishuku 鬼宿 (Pusya) 増益天 7 Ry(shuku 柳宿 (Aslesa) 不染天 DRAGON'S BUDDHIST COUNTERPART = JIKOKUTEN 持国天 Star Chart by Steve Renshaw & Saori Ihara KEY TO BELOW LIST (corresponds to left column above) Chinese | Meaning | Jp. 2. Horns (perhaps Angle.Lanterns (Stone) Links Making Statues Mandara (Mandala) Maneki Neko Marishiten (Marici) Miroku Bosatsu Monju Bosatsu Monkeys Moon Lodges Mother Goddess Mudra (Hands) Myoken (Pole Star) Myo-o Nara Era Art Tour Newsletter Sign Up Nijuhachi Bushu Nikko & Gakko Ninpinin Nio Protectors Nyorai Group Objects & Symbols Oinari (Fox) Onigawara Phoenix (Ho-o) Pilgrimage Guide Pottery Protective Stones Raigo Triad Raijin (Thunder God) Rakan (Arhat) Red Clothing Reincarnation Robes (Drapery) Rock Gardens Sanbo Kojin Sanno Gongen Sarutahiko Sculptors (Busshi) Seishi Bosatsu Sendan Kendatsuba Seven Lucky Gods Shachi. Spica) Neck. Ashitare Boshi. 氐. Libra) Chamber or Breasts. Wood GROUPING ONE . Corner). Shingon) 作者天 1 木者天 2 烏頭天 3 米湿天 4 服財天 5 増益天 6 不染天 7 WEST . Mi Boshi. JAPAN Chinese | Sanskrit Names Eastern Moon Lodges Source: Shukuy!-ky! 宿曜経 GROUPING TWO . M(labarha&' or M(la (Mu Sco. Nakago Boshi. Vi%"kh") (Iota Lib. Anur"dh" (Delto Sco. Citr" (Alpha Vir. Soi Boshi. Throat. Source: Museum Reihokan Koyasan (J-Site. Alpha Lib. 7.JAPAN Deities in GENZU MANDALA 現図曼荼羅 Shingon/Tendai Deities (Celestial Females) Jp. Shachihoko Shaka Nyorai Shape Shifters Shichifukujin Shijin (Shishin) Shinra Myoujin Shinto Clergy Shinto Concepts Shinto Kami Shinto Main Menu Shinto Sects Shinto Shrines Shishi (Lion) Shitenno Shoki Shomen Kongo Shotoku Taishi Shrines Shugendo Siddhartha Six States Star Deities Stone Gardens Stone Graves Stone Lanterns Stones (Top Menu) Suijin (Water Kami) 「イ＋去」天 EAST Seven Lunar Mansions of the Blue-Green Dragon (Two Common Japanese Groupings for Seven Eastern Moon Lodges) SEIRYUU 青龍 (Dragon) East. Genzu Mandala 現図曼荼羅 Shingon Sect of Esoteric Japanese Buddhism. 箕. Reading | Chinese | (Sanskrit) | Deity Name 1 Kakushuku 角宿 Citr" 2 K!shuku 亢宿 Ni#$y" (or Sv"ti) 3 Teishuku 氐宿 Vi%"kh" 4 B!shuku 房宿 Anur"dh" 5 Shinshuku 心宿 Rohi&'. 昴. Orion) Investigate / Three. Kagasuki Boshi. JAPAN Chinese | Sanskrit Names Western Moon Lodges Source: Shukuy!-ky! 宿曜経 GROUPING TWO . 5. 7. 參. A#vayuj or A#vin" (Beta Ari. Revat" (Delta And. Metal GROUPING ONE . 觜. B&hu / (rdr& (Delta or Beta Ori. Tatara Boshi. Phi Ori.CHINA. Rohi$" (Epsilon Tau. 2. Stride / Foot. Tokaki Boshi. Aries) Stopping Place / United. 6. Leiden (1831 CE) . Nippon Archiv zur Beschreibung von Japan. Apabhara$" or Bhara$" (35 Ari. 1832-54 Nippon. 4. Ekie Boshi. Toroki Boshi. 胃. 婁. Autumn. Invak& or M%ga#iras (Lamda Ori. Shingon) 随事天 1 尊天 2 辰天 3 杏天 4 大光天 5 対主天 6 寂天 7 Source of Below Diagram of 28 Celestial Maidens: Philipp Franz von Siebold. Andromeda) Hill / Lasso / Bellows. 畢. Reading | Chinese | (Sanskrit) | Deity Name 1 Keishuku 奎宿 Revat" 2 R!shuku 婁宿 A#vayuj (or A#vin") 3 Ishuku 胃宿 Apabhara$" (or Bhara$") 4 B!shuku 昴宿 K%ttik& 5 Hisshuku 畢宿 Rohi$" 6 Shishuku 觜宿 Invak& (or M%ga#iras) 7 Shinshuku 參宿 B&hu (or (rdr&) 1 B!shuku 房宿 (Anuradha) 随事天 2 Shinshuku 心宿 (Jyesth) 尊天 3 Bishuku 尾宿 (Mula) 辰天 4 Kishuku 箕宿 (Purvasadha) 杏天 5 Toshuku 斗宿 (Uttarasadha) 大光天 6 Gy'shuku 牛宿 (Abhijit) 対主天 7 Joshuku 女宿 (Sravana) 寂天 WHITE TIGER'S BUDDHIST COUNTERPART = K!MOKUTEN 広目天 Star Chart by Steve Renshaw & Saori Ihara KEY TO BELOW LIST (corresponds to left column above) Chinese | Meaning | Jp. Pleiades) Net (related to Rain?). K%ttik& (17 Tau.JAPAN Deities in GENZU MANDALA 現図曼荼羅 Shingon/Tendai Deities (Celestial Females) Jp. Orion) WEST Seven Celestial Maidens in Western Cluster. Aries) Stomach. 奎. Subaru Boshi.Suijin (Water Kami) Symbols & Objects Tamonten Taishakuten Tanuki Temples Temple Lodging Tenbu Group Tengu Tennin & Tennyo Tentoki or Jyaki Terminology Tibetan Carpets Tibet Photos Tibetan Tanka Transmigration Ungyo Unkei Busshi Water Basin Weapons Wheel of Life Yakushi Nyorai Yasha (Yaksha) Zao Gongen Zen (Daruma) Zen Art Tour Zodiac Calendar Zochoten Seven Lunar Mansions of the White Tiger (Two Common Japanese Groupings for Seven Western Moon Lodges) BYAKKO 百虎 (White Tiger) White. Amefuri Boshi. Genzu Mandala 現図曼荼羅 Shingon Sect of Esoteric Japanese Buddhism. Source: Museum Reihokan Koyasan (J-Site. 3. Click image to enlarge. 16 Tau. Taurus) Turtle Snout. Star Reading | Sanskrit Spelling | (Western Constellation) 1. Archiv zur Beschreibung von Japan. . 虚宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん だにしゅた のうきしゃたら そわか 2. 翼宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん うったら はらろぐ のうきしゃたら そわか 4. 斗宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん うったらあしゃだ のうきしゃたら そわか 6. 亢宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん そばてい のうきしゃたら そわか 7. 張宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん ほらは はらぐ のうきしゃたら そわか 3. 房宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん あどらだ のうきしゃたら そわか 2. 壁宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん うたのう ばっだらば のうきしゃたら そわか 5. 尾宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん ぼうら のうきしゃたら そわか 4. 井宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん ぶのうばそ のうきしゃたら そわか 6. 星宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん まぎゃ のうきしゃたら そわか 2. 室宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん ほらば ばつだらやち のうきしゃたら そわか 4. 奎宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん りはち のうきしゃたら そわか 6. 昴宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん きりちきゃ のうきしゃたら そわか 2. 女宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん しらまな のうきしゃたら そわか NORTH: 北方七宿 1. 牛宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん あびしゃ のうきしゃたら そわか 7. 婁宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん あしんび のうきしゃたら そわか 7. 角宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん しったら のうきしゃたら そわか 6. 胃宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん ばらに のうきしゃたら そわか Big Dipper Mandala (Mandara) . 氐宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん そしゃきゃ のうきしゃたら そわか WEST: 西方七宿 1. 柳宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん あしゃれいしゃ のうきしゃたら そわか SOUTH: 南方七宿 1. 鬼宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん びじゃや のうきしゃたら そわか 7. 危宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん しゃたびしゃ のうきしゃたら そわか 3. JAPANESE MANTRAS FOR 28 CELESTIAL DEITIES Courtesy this J-Site EAST: 東方七宿 1. 觜宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん ひりぎゃしら のうきしゃたら そわか 4. 参宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん あんだら のうきしゃたら そわか 5.Learn about this monumental pre-Meiji publication at this outside site . 畢宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん ろきに のうきしゃたら そわか 3. 軫宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん かしゅた のうきしゃたら そわか 5. 心宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん せいしゅった のうきしゃたら そわか 3. 箕宿 のうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん ふるばあしゃだ のうきしゃたら そわか 5. W = 83. = Bosatsu). Hokuto Mandala 北斗曼荼羅 Heian Period. 12 zodiac signs in next circle. and the Sun and Moon. Used when performing the Hokutoh! 北斗法 or "Big Dipper Rite" for averting natural disasters and calamities. Inside each medallion is a figure wearing a headdress. Nara Kakemono. The sun. Color & gold leaf on silk. People prayed to these stars to help prevent disasters and to live longer. L = 118. Ichijikinrin (aka Shaka Kinrin) is an emanation of Shaka Nyorai (Historical Buddha). while the Shingon 真言 Sect uses a square mandara (preserved at Kumedadera 久米田寺 in Osaka). Says the Kyoto National Museum : "These days it is more common to tell fortunes from the twelve signs of the zodiac. The ruling star on the day the fortune telling is performed was also important. Considered the greatest of extant paintings of Star Mandalas. Says the Kyoto National Museum : "Under the central Buddha are seven medallions shaped like an "S" turned on its side.2 cm.ones that represent the deification of heavenly bodies -. Photo courtesy this J-site. Although also classified as a type of Hoshi (Star) Mandala -. days and planets in inner circle. DESCRIPTION. Classified as a Besson Mandala dedicated to specific deities." . Ichijikinrin (aka Shaka Kinrin) is another form of Shaka (Historical Buddha). DESCRIPTION. Shaka Kinrin is often shown surrounded by the seven stars of the Big Dipper. with days & planets and main deity in central frame. Photo this Jsite. They are shaped like this to represent the constellation of the big dipper.3 cm 28 deities in outer circle. moon and planets and the twenty-eight signs played secondary roles to the seven stars of the Big Dipper. The disposition of the deities varies somewhat. the T!hon Hokuto Mandala devoted to Shij!k! Butch! 熾盛光仏頂. Your fate depended on which of the seven stars was ruling on the month and day you were born. the most important stars in the Star Mandala. Ichijikinrin Butch! 一字金輪仏頂 at center. but in the old days it was more common to tell fortunes from the seven stars of the Big Dipper. and by the deities of the 28 lunar mansions. Osaka. and main deity Ichijikinrin Butch! 一字金輪仏頂 at center. who commonly assumes the form of Shaka Kinrin 釈 金輪 (Gold Wheel Shaka) in artwork. These are the Seven Stars of the Big Dipper. were used when petitioning for relief from disasters or to pray for longevity. with the wheel placed on the lap and the hands forming the Hokkai J!in Mudra 法界定印 (dharma-realm meditation mudra). or a scoop. Kumedadera Temple 久米田寺. and the Taoistinfluenced Sh"nanzan Mandara 終南山曼荼羅.the Hokuto Mandala is primarily centered on a single deity named Ichijikinrin Butch! 一字金輪仏頂 (see Ichijikinrin Mandala)." Hokuto Mandala 北斗曼荼羅 Heian (Fujiwara) Period Circular version. Venus and Saturn. See photos of both on our Mandala Glossary page. Some variants of the Hokuto Mandara include the My!ken Mandara 妙見曼荼羅 centered on My!ken Bodhisattva 妙見菩 (Jp. In the Hokuto Mandara. Big Dipper Mandala. Square version. Such mandala. 12 zodiac signs in middle frame. Other medallions in the center section represent planets such as Mercury. by the 12 signs of the Zodiac. either round or square. 28 deities in outer frame. H!ry"ji Temple 法隆寺. by the nine planets. Shaka Kinrin is a manifestation of Shaka Buddha 釈 如 来 (the Historical Buddha). one in which Shaka is holding a golden wheel in his hands. The Tendai 天 台 sect uses a circular mandara (a renowned example is preserved at H!ry"ji Temple 法隆寺 in Nara.Big Dipper Mandala (Mandara) Hokuto Mandala 北斗曼荼羅. K!ya 高野. so this first copy is known as the K!nin Version. Henchi-in 遍知院 3. Shaka-in 釈 院 7. three mandala 曼荼羅 fragments were discovered in 1954 in the attic of the treasure house (h!z! 宝蔵) at T!ji Temple. Huiguo 恵果 (Jp. 12 Zodiac Animals in middle ring. Gekong!bu-in 外金剛部院 (the 28 deities typically appear in this section) Compared with the approximately 120 deities mentioned in the Dainichi-ky! this represents a more than threefold increase in the number of deities. = Vairocanabhisambodhi Sutra) via the Taiz! Zuz! 胎蔵図像 and Taiz! Ky"zuy! 胎蔵旧図様. Wakayama Pref. Jogaish!-in 除蓋障院 12. Jimy!-in 持明院 4. and of these the so-called K!hon 甲本 (Version A) is thought to be a fragment of the second copy of the Genzu Mandala. made in the Genroku 元禄 era (late 17c). Its composition varies somewhat. Ch"dai-hachiy!-in 中台八葉院 2. The original version. Monju-in 文殊院 10. 12 Zodiac Animals in middle ring. the imperial . The term "Genzu 現図 (current depiction) was first used by Godai-in Annen 五大院安然 (841-889/898?) of the Tendai 天台 sect. 28 lunar Mansions in outer ring. Soshitsuji-in or Soshitchi-in 蘇悉地院 11. The version presently used at T!ji is the fourth copy. 清浄心院 Mt. year of the reign of Emperor K!nin 弘仁. made in 1191. while the so-called Einin 永仁 Version is thought to be a fragment of the third copy. The Genzu Mandala is considered to have been brought to completion by K"kai's teacher. 28 lunar Mansions in outer ring. and it represents the final form of the Taiz!kai Mandala. K!ya 高野. = Keika. which evolved from the mandala of the Dainichi-ky! 大日経 (Skt." Says JAANUS: A version of the Taiz!kai Mandala that is widely used today in Japan. in his Shosetsu Fud!ki 諸説不同 記 a detailed comparison of the iconography of the deities depicted in the Taiz!kai Mandara. Kong!shu-in 金剛手院 6. Rengebu-in 蓮華部院 5. made in 1296 (Einin 4). Courtesy Museum Reihokan Koyasan Star Mandala 星供曼荼羅  Sh!hj!shin-in Temple. a copy was made in 821. brought to Japan from China by K"kai 空海 (774-835). Jiz!-in 地蔵院 9. Later. 746-805). In addition. but it consists of approximately 400 deities systematically arranged in 12 sections called: 1. commonly known in English as the "Womb World Mandala. Kok"z!-in 虚空蔵院 8. Wakayama Pref.Star Mandala 星供曼荼羅図 Kong!buji Temple 金剛峯寺 Mt. was kept at T!ji Temple 東寺 (Kyoto). Courtesy Museum Reihokan Koyasan Genzu Mandala (Mandara) 現図曼荼羅 Literally the "current depiction" of the Taiz!kai Mandala 胎蔵界曼荼羅 in Japan. Center = Ichijikinrin Butch! ?? 7 stars of Big Dipper plus 9 Planets in inner ring. but because it began to show signs of wear in K"kai's later years. Center = Ichijikinrin Butch! ?? 7 stars of Big Dipper plus 9 planets in inner ring. and is known as the Genroku Version. the Great One. = Chintaku Reifujin 鎮宅霊符神 Jp. = My!ken Daibosatsu 妙見大菩 Jp. > As a deification of the North Pole Star." In Japan. Among samurai and peasants. = My!ken Bosatsu 妙見菩 Jp. for the deity reportedly assisted sect founder and radical reformer Nichiren Sh!nin 日連上人 (1222-82). Details below. My!ken images resemble or are equated with Kichij!ten 吉祥天 (the Goddess of Beauty. = My!ken-shin or My!ken-jin 妙見神 Jp. My!ken Mantra おん そぢりしゅた そわか。 おん まかしりえい しべい そわか On Sochirishuta Sowaka On Makashiri-ei Shibei Sowaka My!ken Sanskrit Seed Pronounced SO in Japanese . as well as the deification of the Big Dipper (Ursa Major). a Nichiren stronghold. = Hokuto-ten 北斗天 Jp. and local kami cults. one who sees all. who in turn was sometimes known as the Taoist deity Taizan Fukun 泰 山府君 or Taiichi 太一. but it is especially important within Esoteric Buddhism. <Source: Lucia Dolce. = My!ken Son 妙見尊 Jp. penetrating sight. heavenly sight. Sudar"ana) Deification of North Pole Star & Little Dipper Origin = Chinese folk worship of the North Pole Star. Onmy!d! 陰陽道 (Yin-Yang Divination). and healed eye diseases. shrines commonly replaced My!ken with a Shint! kami counterpart known as Ame no Minakanushi no Mikoto 天御中主 尊 (Lord of the Center of the Sky). = Sudrsti. Taoism. Sudrsti Chn. and it subsequently passed into general usage. 16-17. My!ken is also held in high esteem. My!ken Son 妙見尊. The Japanese court regarded the Pole Star as an imperial symbol and worshipped its deification as Sonsh!-! 尊星王 (Sonj!-!. but in the eastern provinces and among samurai warriors. one who protected not only the emperor and country. but also warded off diseases. My!ken is considered the guardian of warriors. = Miàojiàn Púsà (Miao Chien) Krn. or simply "good eyesight. = Hokushin Bosatsu 北辰菩 Jp. the imperial prince and Buddhist priest Shinjaku 真寂 (886-927) used the term to designate the orthodox Taiz!kai Mandara as transmitted by K#kai in contradistinction to that brought to Japan by Sh#ei 宗叡 (809-884) and preserved in the Tendai sect. even today. and Merit). My!ken was venerated under various guises as the central star controlling all other celestial bodies. In Yin-Yang circles (Onmy!d! 陰陽道). worship of the northern Pole Star along with the seven stars of the Big Dipper (Hokuto Shichisei 北斗七星) is a syncretic blend of Buddhism. Sonshoo. My!ken is the deification of the North Pole Star (Hokushin 北辰) of the Little Bear constellation (Ursa Minor). But because of confusion between the Little Dipper and Big Dipper. since the forced separation of Buddhism and Shint!ism in the Meiji Period (18681912). by Japan's Nichiren sect. = Shinmu Taiitsu J!tei Rei! Tenson 真武太一霊応天尊 Sanskrit = Sudar"ana. In the Jimon 寺門 branch of the Tendai 天台 sect. My!ken is closely associated with the Little Dipper (where the north star is located). s/he is venerated at both Buddhist temples and Shint! shrines. <end JAANUS quote> My!ken 妙見 (Skt. prevented calamities of fire and other disasters. My!ken in Nose 能勢妙見山 (near Osaka). increased life spans. = Hokuto My!ken 北斗妙見菩 Jp. and farmers. the "Monarch of the Venerable Star"). Horses were especially important in battle and in harvesting crops. The term My!ken 妙見 literally means heavenly eyes. and from the Heian period (794-1180) onward. The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. However. even today. or My!ken Daibosatsu 妙見大菩 . one believed to control the life and fortunes of the people. she is also known as Hokushin Bosatsu 北辰菩 (Pole Star My!ken). My!ken goes by many different names in Japan. My!ken Spellings Jp. Sonsei-!.記 a detailed comparison of the iconography of the deities depicted in the Taiz!kai Mandara. = Taiitsu J!tei 太一上帝 (Confucianism) Jp. As a deification of the Pole Star. Prosperity. My!ken was also worshipped as the deity of safe voyages and navigators. and is worshipped in this role especially at sacred Mt. = Myogyeon Bosal. = Kunitokotachi no Mikoto 国常立尊 Jp. = Sonsh!-! 尊星王 Jp. The term "Genzu" should therefore be used to refer to the current depiction of the Taiz#kai Mandala. where My!ken appears as a warrior brandishing a sword over his head (see photo below). = Ame no Minakanushi 天御中主尊 Jp. or Hokuto-ten 北斗天 (Deva of the Big Dipper). the deity was venerated as My!ken 妙見. In Japan. Fertility. hence the association with warriors and farmers. = Taikyoku Genshi 太極元神 (Diviners) Jp. Hokuto My!ken Bosatsu 北斗妙見菩 (Big Dipper My!ken). pp. horses. = Taiisu Hokushin Sonj! 太一北辰尊星 Jp. the deity was prayed to as Chintaku Reifujin 鎮宅霊符神. <Source: The Nihon Ry!iki of the Monk Ky!kai . My!ken imagery is commonly combined with representations of the Seven Stars of the Big Dipper. while the hands hold the sun and moon discs (befitting icons symbolizing My!ken's role as the supreme celestial deity." Performed to prevent calamities. Such iconography is considered unique to Japan. and is shown seated on a cloud or standing atop a dragon. 229. and thus s/he comes in various manifestations in Japan. Image based on drawing in the Zuz!sh! (Zuzosho) 図像抄. My!ken's attributes are not firmly set. Another popular modern depiction shows the deity as a warrior. for no trace of it can be found on the Asian continent. My!ken's female form. S/he is sometimes surrounded by a male Yasha-like creature holding an inkstone and/or a female attendant holding a tablet and brush. One of the most popular modern forms of My!ken shows the deity standing atop a turtle (the ancient Chinese guardian of the north). My!ken also commonly carries a brush and tablet (on which s/he records our good/bad deeds). is considered a manifestation of Kannon Bosatsu and is venerated as the goddess of the home and prayed to for domestic harmony. Other heterodox views identify My!ken with Shaka Nyorai (the Historical Buddha) or with Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha). Came to prominence during the Insei period 1086-1192. one "lighting" the way along the path of enlightenment). Held in modern times during adverse weather or when natural disasters threaten society. Treasure of Sh!my!-ji Temple 称名寺. and the Big Dipper include: My!ken-h! 妙見法. In another story from the same text. published 1973. Photo courtesy Taoism Art Catalog. Handscroll. Some of the most important rituals devoted to My!ken.Beauty. The first evidence of the My!ken cult at the Japanese court is recorded in 785 AD <source: Nakamura p. one of four 4-armed My!ken atop dragon." In this book of Buddhist legends. color on paper. the Rite of Sonj!-! (aka My!ken). Important Cultural Property ICP. The oldest extant representations of My!ken (see photos below) depict the deity with right foot raised and resting behind the opposite knee. the Rite to My!ken. or depicted as a royal dressed in courtly gowns. or a composite beast known as the Kida 亀蛇 (half turtle. holding a sword above his head and wearing helmet and armor. the deity generally appears with two or four arms. or a turtle. Hokuto-h! 北斗法. My!ken is more properly classified as a Deva (Jp. and 266-267> My!ken Iconography & Rituals Although considered a Bosatsu (Skt. see pages 85. Kanagawa. the Rite of the Big Dipper. or the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Icons. = Bodhisattva). the Pole Star. half dragon-snake). Fertility. and Merit). while the moon disc sometimes contains a hare and/or toad. but now housed by the Kanagawa Prefectural Kanazawa Bunko Museum 神奈川県立金沢文庫保管. a fisherman whose boat is destroyed in a storm is rescued from certain drowning because of his faith in My!ken. = TEN). For instance. 149. stories of My!ken's miraculous powers appeared in the Nihon Ry!iki 日本霊異記 (aka Nihon Rei-iki or Nippon Reiiki). Prosperity. in some locations. Sonj!-! can be translated as "Monarch of the Venerable Star. commonly translated as "Miraculous Stories of Karmic Retribution of Good and Evil in Japan. Kamakura Era (13th-14th century). Held in modern times during adverse weather or when natural disasters threaten society. as at K!d! Temple 革堂 (the 19th temple along the 33-Site Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage). My!ken appears in the form of a deer to help (1) devotees recover stolen silk robes and (2) to help worshippers discover a thief (a temple acolyte who steals money from the donations of My!ken devotees). The full title of this text is Nihonkoku Genp! Zen'aku Ry!iki 日本国現 報善悪霊異記. Sonj!-!-h! 尊星王法. The sun disc sometimes contains a three-legged black crow. holding sun & moon discs. In statuary and mandala artwork. 85>. a text edited by Ej" 恵什 (1060-1145 AD). and brush & tablet (on which s/he records our good/bad deeds). translated and edited by Kyoko Motomochi Nakamura. . By the early 9th century. Kyoto. Amaterasu). p." Performed to prevent calamities. Sources: Kokugakuin University . and from 12th-century texts onward. 30th Shaka. the sun and the moon.4 cm. Amanominakanushi. a Watarai clan temple midway between the Inner and Outer Shrines at Ise). <Photo: Treasures of T!ji Temple. religious services held on such a day will have particular merit. the deity My!ken (the north star) was changed to Ame no Minakanushi at many shrines. W = 40. it is an appropriate ENNICHI for My!ken. and Mark Teeuwen. > My!ken's Ennichi (Holy Day). holding sword. 92 > Says the Encyclopedia of Shinto : "Japanese scholar Hirata Atsutane. 15th Amida. when the government actively outlawed all fusion of the Kami-Buddha. Ame no Minakanushi is generally translated as "Lord of the Center of the Sky. p. <end quote> Many Suitengu Standing image of My!ken Bosatsu. the 5th is Miroku. As a result of this influence. Devoted to the worship of the Pole Star. Color on Silk. Wood. During the process of separation of Shint! and Buddhist objects of worship. held from the late 9th century until the late Edo period by members of the Watarai clan of Ise priests at Okazaki Shrine 岡崎 (located on the grounds of the J!my!ji Temple 常明寺. the deity is generally interpreted as equivalent to the Pole Star." This is translated as holy day. Saying prayers to the deity on this day is believed to bring greater merits and results than on regular days. pp. Ame no Minakanushi was made a central deity at the Daiky!in Temple in the early Meiji period. Kamakura Era (dated 1301). and he was worshiped within sectarian Shint! (Ky!ha Shint!) as well. Sonj!-! is considered to represent the entire cosmos (not just the Pole Star).Star. or Mountain Shrine festival/rite. Since the full moon appears on the 15th each month in the old lunar calendar.g. propounded a theology wherein Ame no Minakanushi no Mikoto 天御中主尊 was chief kami of the seven major stars of the constellation Ursa Major. the rite. accordingly. Asahi Shimbun. <Source: Gaynor Sekimori. e. Says the Digitial Dictionary of Buddhism (login = guest): "The deity is understood to be in special charge of mundane affairs on that day. literally "related day" or "day of connection.1 cm. and eventually to the protective deities of the 12 months of the year and the 28 Lunar Mansions. 712 AD. 1995 Exhibit Catalog. . 14th Century. > Yamamiya-sai 山宮祭. H = 155." <end quote> See Ennichi list for 30 Deities (Sanj"n Nichi Hibutsu 三十日秘仏. aka My!ken Bosatsu 妙見菩 . (Also spelled: 天之御 中主神." This kami appears in the Kojiki 古事記 (Record of Ancient Matters. who then served as the chief kami of the seven major stars of the constellation of the Big Dipper (Ursa Major). 25th Monju. In this rite. one with special significance to a particular Buddha or Bodhisattva. dressed as warrior. the Buddhist deity My!ken was commonly replaced with the Shint! kami Ame no Minakanushi no Mikoto 天御中主尊 (a primordial ancestral kami). combines a multitude of celestial deities into a single visualization of Sonj!-!. The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. Japan's oldest record of its creation myths). compiled by Ch! Teishi 張鼎思 (1543-1603). <Source: Mark Teeuwen. Between 1868-1875.8 cm. one of four imperial rites traditionally performed at Miidera Temple 三 井寺 (aka Onj!ji Temple 園城寺) in Shiga Prefecture. in particular. 234-236. Photo courtesy Taoism Art Catalog. Came to prominence during the Insei period 1086-1192 AD. Japanese only). Amenominakanushi. The 15th day of each month is considered My!ken's Ennichi 縁日.> My!ken and Ame no Minakanushi My!ken worship suffered when the Meiji government forcibly separated Shint! and Buddhism (Shinbutsu Bunri 神仏分離) in the late 19th century. According to popular belief. 91-92. A similar portrayal of My!ken appears in scroll 29 of the R!ya Daisuihen 琅邪代酔 . L = 113. By Immy! 院命. T!ji Temple 東寺. The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. ICP. Hokushin 北辰 (Polar Star Deity). He is also venerated as a special protector deity of the land and country of Japan. Kyoto Photo courtesy Taoism Art Catalog. from the 12th century onwards. Photo: This J-store. In Japan he is popularly believed to cure eye diseases. JEBD].8 cm. see story by scholar Gaynor Sekimori entitled "Star Rituals and Nikk! Shugend!. pages 217-250. Skt." <end JAANUS quote> Says the Digital Dictionary of Buddhism Sign in with user name = guest. Although popularly regarded as a Bodhisattva 菩 . presumably an amalgamation of the Shinto deity Myooken Shin 妙見神 and the deity of the Northern Polar Star (Dipper). My!kenjin has a halo showing the seven stars of the Big Dipper and holds a sword in one hand. ISSN 1368-6534. In Edo he was very popular.21. There is a set of 26 paintings. Elsewhere. Also called 妙見大士. and in the Jimon 寺門 branch of the Tendai 天台 sect she is equated with Kichij!ten 吉祥天. and is venerated in esoteric Buddhism and the Nichiren Sect. Originally a deification of the Polestar (Hokushin 北辰) but later also regarded as a deification of the Big Dipper (Hokuto 北斗) because of confusion between the two. This bodhisattva is believed to protect the country." <end quote Teeuwen> Sonsh!-! 尊星王 (aka My!ken). "The beautiful sight. Ise priests wrote texts claiming that the deity of the Outer Shrine at Ise was identical to Ame no Minakanushi (the first deity of creation in the Kojiki). ward off disease and increase one's life-span. at Daigoji Temple 醍醐寺 in Kyoto.36b5. edited by Lucia Dolce. The Iwanami dictionary has a detailed entry. Transliterated as 藪達梨舍菟. though some say "#kyamuni. = Sudrsti. At the same time she was also adopted by the Nichiren 日蓮 sect and remains the object of a popular cult today. a special double issue of Culture and Cosmos. all different.which can be roughly translated as "Chief of All Celestial Deities. W = 57." thus retaining the nuance of My!ken's exalted position among all stars. H = 99. <end quote> Many Suitengu Shrines throughout modern Japan still revere Amenominakanushi -. others 藥師 Bhai%ajya. brings luck and prosperity and heals illness of the eyes.Minakanushi at many shrines. sources cmuller." End DDB quote. This clan later became followers of Nichiren. or the bodhisattva who rules there. Holds sun & moon disks. She is invoked in particular for apotropaic purposes and also for the healing of eye diseases. and usually referred to as My!ken Bosatsu 妙見菩 . others the Seven Buddhas. Ursa Major. So festivals of Myooken were visted by many townspeople and always full of merrymaking. therefore Myooken is often venerated in temples of this sect. 〔密成就儀軌 T 1205. My!ken Lore from Other Sources Says JAANUS : "My!ken is an amalgamation of the Shint! deity My!ken Shin 妙見神 and the deity of the Northern Polar Star (Little Dipper).e. stands atop dragon. . properly speaking s/he belongs to the category of divinities called TEN 天 (Skt. which is a common portrayal of the deity among samurai. and in medieval times she came to be worshipped especially among powerful provincial clans as a tutelary deity of the warrior class. He (sometimes seen as a SHE) has been the protector deity of the clan of the CHIBA 千葉 since the Heian period. Worshipped to avoid calamities of fire and to heal eye diseases. others Avalokitê$vara. For an excellent review of My!ken in modern times. Mimuroto-ji Temple 三室戸寺. Says site contributor Gabi Greve : "My!ken is a purely Japanese Bosatsu. In Japan she appears to have been widely revered as early as the Heian period. Holding sword over head. but generally speaking she is depicted with either two or four arms and either seated on a cloud or standing on the back of a dragon. My!ken Bosatsu. evolving into the partially Shint!ized deity My!kenjin 妙見神. Myooken protects from fires. p. since there were many fires in the city. 92 : "At Ise shrines." which appeared in The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. Monarch of the Venerable Star. Artistic representations of My!ken exhibit considerable diversity.9 cm. the My!ken Mandala 妙 見曼荼羅. Nakamura. He stands on a tortoise with a thick Modern My!ken Statue. Soothill. = Deva). Hanging Scroll. There is also a mandala (mandara) 曼荼羅 devoted to her. says scholar Mark Teeuwen. 15th Century. . He also takes care of the behaviour of human beings and writes your good and bad deeds in his notebook. Color on Silk. i. He symbolizes the Great Bear. His image is that of a youth in golden armor. Muromachi Era. In Japan. holding sword. He carries a sword and a wish-fulfilling jewel. most of his statues are made of stone. His hair is long and hanging down. like the fashions popular in the Heian in the guise of a Bodhisattva. Sometimes he is depicted with four arms. He stands on a tortoise with a thick tail or rides a green dragon. Atop turtle. The above drawing depicts Sonj!-! (aka .the land and country of Japan. he registers all our deeds)." <end Gabi Greve quote> Modern My!ken Statue. two of them carrying the sun and the moon. My!ken Photos with Reference Notes ABOVE TWO DRAWINGS: The Sonj!-! (or Sonsh!-!) Mandala 尊星王曼荼羅. Drawing from the 17th-century Butsuz!-zu-i 仏像図彙 period. holding sword. Modern My!ken Statue. Seven Big Dipper Stars in Halo. He is accompanied by a vassal who Hokuto-ten 北斗天 (Big Dipper My!ken) carries pen and paper (remember. Seven Big Dipper Stars in Halo. Photo: This J-store. The Sonj!-! Mandala was used in rituals to secure the health and longevity of the emperor. Photo: This J-store. Atop turtle. but the origin of its iconography has "exercised scholarly minds for centuries. Various other creatures appear. forming the shape of the numeral four -. Horned deer atop head. 13th century. The oldest extant example of this mandala is a monochrome drawing that appears in the Besson Zakki 別尊雑記. standing atop a dragon. associated with night and so the Pole Star. The deity stands on one leg. Both are originally Chinese representations associated with the sun and the moon." Also called the Gojukkansh! 五十巻抄. ICP. and Gaynor Sekimori pp. Kichij!ten and Bishamonten. The crow is associated with the sun and with Amaterasu "mikami 天照大神 (Japan's supreme sun goddess). Color on silk. The above drawing depicts Sonj!-! (aka My!ken) with four arms. The dragon represents the Pole Star and the Dipper constellation." <source Tsuda Tetsuei pp. RIGHT (REPRODUCTION): Photo from this J-site. with the right foot raised behind the opposite knee. not pen and paper. See below for details on this iconography. The hare is associated with the moon. The vases that appear in the drawing contain the elixir of immortality. a Buddhist text compiled by Shingon monk Shinkaku 心覚 (1116-1180) and translated as "Miscellaneous Record of Classified Sacred Images. The outer rim of eight sun & moon discs depict a deer 鹿. LEFT PHOTO: Photo from Miidera Temple's J-site. 217-250 in The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. The provenance of the animals on the outer . Various stars and constellations appear in three concentric circles around the deity. It has been suggested that the leg position represents the magical step callled the Pace of Yu (henbai uho 反閇禹歩) used in contemporary Shugend! to create sacred boundaries. and associations have also been made with two other deities of the north. <Sources: Tsuda Tetsuei pp. 217-250. including an elephant. leopard ." according to scholar Gaynor Sekimori in "Star Rituals and Nikk! Shugend!" (pp. said to be My!ken's messenger or manifestation.used in rituals to secure the health and longevity of the emperor. The image stands on the moon. Holding sun & moon discs. The above two drawings come from the Besson Zakki. tiger 虎. Kamakura period. > Sonj!-! (or Sonsh!-!) Mandala 尊星王曼荼羅 Four-armed Sonj!-! (aka My!ken) standing atop a dragon. "which seem to reflect the pattern of the night sky in the northern hemisphere.this pose is said to symbolize the ritual steps (uho 禹歩) used in Onmy!d! 陰陽道 (Yin-Yang practices) or the magical step called the Pace of Yu (henbai uho 反閇禹歩) used in contemporary Shugend! practices to create sacred boundaries. moon disk (with a rabbit and frog inside). and elephant 象. The Sonj!-! Mandala is attributed to the Jimon 寺門 branch of the Tendai 天台 sect based at Miidera Temple 三井寺 (aka Onj!ji Temple 園城寺) in Shiga Prefecture. white fox 白狐. W = 42 cm. The eight sun and moon discs (probably the eight basic hexagrams representing cosmic balance) contain the three-legged crow and a rabbit and frog respectively. H = 68 cm. hare and frog 蛙 inside moon disc. as is the frog because of its bumpy skin. a trident (Gekihoko 戦鉾). A crocodile-like creature (makatsu 摩竭) appears atop the deity's head. The deity holds the sun disk (with a three-legged black crow inside). and a staff (Shakuj! 錫 ) with metal rings. although in most other portrayals the animal atop My!ken's head is commonly a deer. 145-194. It is closely related to one of the three standard My!ken iconographical depictions. and numerous three-legged black crows. The Miidera painting portrays Sonj!-! as a four-armed Bodhisattva standing on a green dragon with one foot raised behind the opposite knee. The vase in the center of the moon represents the container of the medicine of immortality. and the frog is associated with the moon because of its bumpy skin. ABOVE TWO PAINTINGS: The 13th-century Sonj!-! (or Sonsh!-!) Mandala 尊星王曼荼羅 at Miidera Temple 三井寺 (aka Onj!ji Temple 園城寺) in Shiga Prefecture is in bad repair. a white fox. but differs in that the second set of hands holds. but a shakuj! (staff) and trident. 145-194>. The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice ). Treasure of Miidera 三井寺 (Shiga). Says Sekimori: "The 12th-century text Kakuzensh! 覚禅鈔 suggests an iconographic relationship with the water star (Mercury) in the mandala devoted to Butsugen 仏眼曼荼羅. as well as more three-legged crows and hare-frog pairs surrounding a vase containing the elixir of immortality. 3-legged crow 三足の烏 inside sun disc. certainly the Fujiwara. and shares [with the Besson Zakki image above] an elephant and a white fox. and the Sonj!-! rite. and Shinshuku). Yet another connection is offered in tales collected in the Nihon Ry!iki (see stories above)." This Chinese belief was imported by the Japanese." The below two drawings share certain iconographical . Photos this J-Site. The provenance of the animals on the outer rim has been described as an 'eternal riddle' but there are indications to suggest their reference. The Miidera painting includes a tiger and a panther (or leopard). the northeast quarter is considered particularly inauspicious. Rokuji My!-! 六字明王 Literally "Six-Syllable Luminescent King. the Twelve (12) Celestial Mansions. whose clan shrine Kasuga was a major patron of Miidera. Another explanation is that the deer was associated with Chinese immortals. One explanation is that it is there to suggest a connection with Kasuga Shrine. [Editor's Note: The northest is known as the 'Demon Gate' in Japan (Kimon 鬼門). who believe the fox is particularly adept at protecting the NE direction from evil influences. See prior photo of original. The concentric circles are stylizations of what appears in the Kakuzensh! drawing and in standard star mandala as the Nine Luminaries. a deity of long life. Deity of the Pole Star and Little / Big Dipper ABOVE TWO DRAWINGS: Modern reproductions of the Sonj!-! Mandala at Miidera Temple. and so may be regarded as guardians of the direction from which the most baleful influences come. and indeed the mantra of Enmei Fugen (Long Life Fugen) is recited during the Sonj!-! ritual. Shows three-legged crow inside sun disk & rabbit-frog inside moon disk. was performed to protect Fujiwara empresses in childbirth. and the Twenty-Eight (28) Constellations. It is the place where "demons gather and enter. Horned deer appears on the head of Sonj!-! and above the upper sun and moon.] The elephant may represent Fugen Bodhisattva." <end quote Gaynor Sekimori> My!ken. tiger (Bikak!). The panther (Kisuihy!). a horned deer appears both on the head of Sonj!-! and above the upper sun and moon. First. In Chinese thought. a Japanese term stemming from Chinese geomancy (Ch: feng shui 風水).frog is associated with the moon because of its bumpy skin. Bishuku. and fox (Shingekk!) are associated with three constellations that protect the northeast (Kishuku. at the bottom are images of Fud! My!-! 不動明王 and Daiitoku My!-! 大威徳明王. Rokuji My!-! appears in the Rokuji Jinju!ky! 六字神咒王經 sutra. Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge Rokuji My!-! 六字明王 Drawing from 12th-century Japanese text Besson Zakki 別尊雑記. The central deity is surrounded by Six Kannon (Roku Kannon 六観音). the deity is portrayed atop a lotus." The below two drawings share certain iconographical similarities with the 12th-century monochrome drawing of My!ken (see prior photos) and the 13th-century painting of Sonj!-! at Miidera (see prior photos). Also called the Rokujiky! (Rokujikyo Mandala). and the group of seven appear within a moon disc. Says JAANUS: "Images of the Six Kannon began to be made as offerings for the welfare of the dead and for personal salvation in the first half of the 10th century. See Hokuto Mandala (Big Dipper Mandala) for more about this form of Shaka. The drawings also portray the deity holding different objects. with right foot raised behind the opposite knee. Centered on Shaka Nyorai 釈 (the Historical Buddha) holding a gold wheel (h!rin 法輪). enemies. At the top of the mandala are two flying celestials (hiten 飛天). where the deity is described as the central icon (honzon 本尊) in esoteric rituals (known as the Ch!buku Shinp! 調伏信法 or Ch!buku-h! 調伏法) to ward off evil spirits." 17th-century drawing from the Butsuz!-zu-i 仏像図彙 Notes on the Rokuji Mandala 六字経曼荼羅. The deity is also said to be the composite reward body (総合 成就身) of the Roku Kannon who protect people in each of the six realms of karmic rebirth. in the below drawings. literally Six Letter Mandala or Six-Syllable Incantation. we see the four-armed one-headed central deity holding the sun disk and moon disk. However.Literally "Six-Syllable Luminescent King. The six forms of Kannon often appear along with their corresponding Sanskrit bonjimon 梵字文. and positioned between them are six figures venerating a smaller moon disc. translated as Miscellaneous Record of Classified Sacred Images Rokuji My!-! 六字明王 Literally "Six-Syllable Luminescent King. <end JAANUS quote> . The Six Kannon appear in the most common form of the Rokujiky! Mandala. In all of them. a Shingon ritual used particularly for sickness and childbirth. which from the Heian period was the focus of the Rokujiky!h! 六字経法. whereas the earlier images show her atop a dragon. and malicious influences. pp. a semi-divine male Yasha 夜 attendant stands atop a black cloud holding an inkstone. Also see 大全書、日本仏像 ISBN4-88405-335-4 C0095. This iconographical document was compiled by Buddhist monk Gonda Raifu 権田雷 (18471934). V. and the wheel of law. LEFT: Four-armed My!ken holding brush and tablet (in which s/he records all one's deeds). sun & moon disks. Sources: Butsuz! Zukan 仏像図鑑. . 139-140. right foot raised & resting behind opposite knee. stands atop dragon & five-colored cloud (Goshiki Un 五色雲). Six or seven snakes appear atop head. RIGHT: Holds brush & tablet. a sword. available for online purchase.ABOVE TWO DRAWINGS: My!ken images from pre-Meiji Japan. One. Nose My!ken Daibosatsu 能勢の妙見大菩 (dated 1824) Tanba Rissh!zan My!h!ji Temple 丹波. and along with the bosatsu. My!ken in Nose 能勢妙見山 (near Osaka) is a famous and sacred site of the Nichiren sect." Chiba Mon Moon-Star Crest My!ken Statue Japanese Art Auctions. The temple is affiliated with the Nichiren Sect. 妙法寺. Miscellaneous Research by James Deacon. It holds an annual My!ken festival in late July. During the Heian period. Photo this J-Site. 2002. they adopted the 'moon-star' crest as their mon. protects horses. Page 10 http://www. 2. My!ken was adopted as the tutelary deity of the Chiba clan.com/doc/133006/Reiki-History-Vol-2 "The moon-star crest (as used by the Chiba) was originally (and still is) the emblem of My!ken Bosatsu. eradicates evil. Chiba Moon-Star Crest (The Emblem of My!ken) From History of Reiki. and the Nose domain is near Osaka. Vol. 立正山. Mt. My!ken of Nose protects the nation. and brings happiness and longevity to the people. It seems this adoption was in recognition that My!ken had afforded protection in battle to one of the Chiba-clan ancestors.scribd. Trocadero Welcome to Another Century My!ken Memorial Stone Votive Stone Plaque (Kamakura) with seven stars of Big Dipper . Hy!go Prefecture Nose was the name of a feudal lord. vanquishes enemies in the battlefield. By Shimanuki Bangetsu 嶋貫盤月. hence Chintaku Reifujin's moniker as Tutelary God of Houses.0 cm. The esoteric ritual known as Anchinh! 安鎮法 (abbreviated as Kokuchin 国鎮) was performed in the imperial palace to secure the safety of the state. (5) Chintaku Reifujin. H = 111. Below the deity are two attendants and Genbu 玄武 (a snake embracing a tortoise).0 cm.5 cm. Hanging Scroll.3 cm. Photos scanned from Taoism Art Catalog. Identified with My!ken in Japan. Edo Era. Edo Era. 19th Century. (4) Chintaku Reifujin. W = 28.3 cm. Hanging Scroll. Edo Era.Also known as the "Tutelary God of Houses" in Japan's Onmy!d! 陰陽道 (Yin-Yang) circles. Print on Paper. H = 111. 19th Century. W = 39. Kyoto City University of Arts. 19th Century. Exhibit catalog published in 2009 by the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art together with the Yomiuri Shimbun. H = 60. Osaka. A similar ritual performed at an ordinary house was called Kachin 家鎮 or Chintaku 鎮宅 (aimed at protecting the household from calamities). Edo Era. Ink on Paper. and the ritual itself was one of the four great rituals of Tendai (Sanmon Shika Daih! 山門四ケ大法). Sheet. H = 61. Hanging Scroll. Print on Paper. W = 39. (6) Chintaku Reifujin. W = 55. Hanging Scroll.5 cm.3 cm. . dated 1768. Hanging Scroll.8 cm. W = 55. the ancient Chinese guardian of the north. Edo Era. Identified with My!ken in Japan. Print on Paper. Chintaku Reifujin 鎮宅霊符神 Chintaku Reifujin 鎮宅霊符神. Osaka. University Art Museum. (3) Chintaku Reifujin.5 cm. Also known as the "Tutelary God of Houses" in Japan's Onmy!d! 陰陽道 (Yin-Yang) circles. Edo Era. H = 61.4 cm. The principal deity was Fudo (Acala). dated 1768. W = 39. (2) Chintaku Reifujin. H = 61. Exhibit catalog published in 2009 by the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art together with the Yomiuri Shimbun. Print on Paper. (1) Chintaku Reifu Shin. Print on Paper.5 cm. Photos scanned from Taoism Art Catalog.0 cm. dated 1768. First. Moon Disk My!ken is also associated with a red sun disk (Nichirin 日輪) and white moon disk (Gachirin 月輪). a Buddhist text compiled by Shingon monk Shinkaku 心覚 (1116-1180) and translated as "Miscellaneous Record of Classified Sacred Images. Hanging Scroll. Exhibit catalog published in 2009 by the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art together with the Yomiuri Shimbun. H = 88. Let us recall that My!ken literally means "wonderous sight. W = 25. Jimmu 神武天皇. My!ken's right hand holds the sun disk with a black threelegged crow drawn inside. which are befitting icons symbolizing My!ken's role as the supreme celestial deity. Photo from Besson Zakki 別尊雑記. My!ken. Even today. H = 88. and making proper pleas and prayers to the icon is said to cure one's eye problems. Sun Disk. Identified with My!ken in Japan. this bird is intimately related to the sun. a black three-legged crow known in China as S"nzúw# 三足烏 (lit. who had landed on the shores of Japan but gotten lost. a giant crow called Yata-garasu 八咫烏 (eight-span crow) appeared to Japan's first legendary emperor.4 cm.Hokushin My!ken Chintaku Reifujin 鎮宅霊符神. dated 1812. an ordained Buddhist priest of Japan's Shingon sect: "Since the crow is also associated with My!ken and the Pole Star. Also known as the "Tutelary God of Houses" in Japan's Onmy!d! 陰陽道 (Yin-Yang) circles. Hanging Scroll. W = 25. dated 1812." Also called the Gojukkansh! 五十巻抄. My!ken atop dragon holding sun & moon disks. Print on Paper. Print on Paper. Edo Era. and with N!jo Taishi 能除太子 (the founder of Haguro Shugend!). Osaka. a black crow-like bird with three legs is also closely associated with Nikk! Bosatsu (Sunlight Bodhisattva). In Chinese mythology and ancient philosophical texts. . (7) Hokushin My!ken Chintaku Reifujin. Three Legged Crow (Yatagarasu 八咫烏) Like My!ken. Says site contributor Cate Kodo Juno ." Making proper pleas and prayers to the moon disc is said to reduce fever and cool the body.1 cm. while the left hand holds the moon disk with a rabbit (or hare & frog) drawn inside. people purchase talismans known as the Nissei Manishu 日精摩尼手 (sun disk with 3-legged black crow) or the Gessei Manishu 月精摩尼手 (moon disk with a hare pounding rice). Why the three legs and why the black crow inside a sun disk? The most plausible reasons involve Chinese mythology and Japan's own creation myths. could it be that it was the Pole Star that guided Jimmu?" Nissei Manishu 日精摩尼手 Three-legged crow inside sun disc. In the photo at right.4 cm. Edo Era. one "lighting" the way along the path of enlightenment. 摩尼は宝珠の意味. in Japan's own creation myths.and the supreme essence of Yang is the sun. Second. According to the Huáinánz% 淮南子(2nd century BC Chinese text). including the Nihon Shoki 日本書紀 (submitted to the Japanese imperial court in 720 AD). The crow was sent by Amaterasu &mikami 天照大神 (Japan's supreme sun goddess) to lead Jimmu to Yamato (the heartland of Japan). with Emperor Jimmu 神武天皇 (Japan's legendary first emperor). this bird has three legs because three is the emblem of Yang -. Photos scanned from Taoism Art Catalog. (8) Hokushin My!ken Chintaku Reifujin. = three-legged bird) appears in Chinese artwork dated to the Y$ngsháo 仰韶 period (5000 BC to 3000 BC). The former is purchased by those with eye disease or poor eye sight.1 cm. called Xi"má 蝦蟆 in Chinese and Gama 蝦蟆 in Japanese. with a waterfall at one end. when people look at the moon. and endowed with magical powers and sometimes even sinister qualities. see Gabi Greve's site. According to legend." growing from its head.with the fungus of longevity. took the name K!kai 弘海. Buddhist Statues). 2006. It was to a place called Akoya. According to many legends. Here also he found a statue of Kannon Bosatsu and it was from here that he founded the three sacred mountains (Dewa Sanzan) as a Shugend! site. who is said to have come to Haguro early in the seventh century. Three-Legged Black Crow Logo of the Japan Football Association Rabbit (Hare) and Frog (Toad) My!ken is also associated with a moon disk containing a rabbit and frog. N!jo is depicted as a strange being. in order to provide added legitimacy and authority to N!jo's legend. For more on rabbit lore in China and Japan. Today people often equate the three-legged crow with the three sacred mountains of Dewa Sanzan. pure white. prince N!jo renounced his title and position. Japan's first great patron of Buddhism. as often happens in hagiographies. in a narrow valley full of thick growth. . according to Maison Franco-Japonaise (which translated the film Shugen: The Autumn Peak of Haguro Shugend! ): "The founder of Haguro Shugend! is N!jo Taishi 能除太子. and became a wandering hermit of the mountains. see Animal Motifs in Asian Art: An Illustrated Guide to Their Meanings and Aesthetics by Katherine M. and three legged -. but the basis of the legend clearly originated in earlier Chinese mythology. pages 173 to 181. a treasure of Miidera Temple 三井寺 (aka Onj!ji Temple 園城寺) in Shiga Pref. pounding magical herbs to make the elixir of eternal life. while mochitsuki means "making mochi. which are said to reduce fever and cool the body. The Japanese." Site contributor Cate Kodo Juno offers another asute observation: "It is most likely that the story of Haguro Shugend! founder N!jo Taishi is emulating the story of Emperor Jimmu. that N!jo was guided by a mystical three-legged crow. one said to possess the power to cure eye diseases. first published 1927. Artwork by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi 月岡芳年 (1839-1892). Gakk! Bosatsu (Moonlight Bodhisattva) is closely associated with the Gachirin 月輪 (moon disk). Haguro. Emperor Jimmu and black crow. The Chinese see a rabbit. has long been associated with the moon in Chinese mythology. My!ken (the deification of the Pole Star and Big Dipper constellation) is a major star deity at sacred Mt. regarded as the "branch of the soul. envision the same rabbit pounding rice to make mochi. ISBN4-88405-335-4 C0095. Legend says he was the third son of the late sixth-century emperor Sushun 崇峻天皇 (reigned 587 to 592). his mouth extending from ear to ear. The name of the full moon is mochizuki. Moon disk with rabbit & frog pounding magical herbs to make the elixir of eternal life. Why the rabbit? In the West." <end quote> Some final words on the above Shugend! legend. they see a man in it. dark of skin and with exaggerated facial features. The Rabbit is also associated with the Zodiac calendar. This icon appears in a 13th-century My!ken Mandala. For more on frog (toad) lore in China and Japan. Like My!ken. where it is described as large. with their love of obscure wordplay. which depicts a rabbit pounding mochi (glutinous rice). This creature. it is immortal.Third." Making proper pleas and prayers to the moon disk is said to reduce fever and cool the body. and the cousin of Sh!toku Taishi (574-622). published in Japan by 四季社 (Shikisha). Commonly shown in My!ken's left hand. Above clipart of the Nissei Manishu and Gessei Manishu from 日本仏像大全書 (Big Catalog of Japan's Gessei Manishu 月精摩尼手 Moon disk with rabbit pounding rice to make mochi. and it was here that he first did ascetic training. People suffering high temperatures or fevers can purchase such talismans or icons (called Gessei Manishu 月精摩尼手). Ball. The frog (toad) is associated with the moon because of its bumpy skin. (see full image below). He was given the title of Sh!ken Daibosatsu 照見大菩 in the 19th century. and Snake Turtles and Snakes 亀と蛇. the patron of warriors and farmers. (Jyamongan 蛇紋岩). See the numerous photos that appear herein. we see a sketch of the legendary tortoise that appeared before Japan's emperor in 715 AD. In artwork. This deity is said to be a manifestation of Hagunsh! 破軍星.jp . Grave steles. The turtle is one of Four Legendary Creatures (shishin 四神) guarding the four directions -. Source: The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice (p. This former temple-shrine multiplex is Actual piece in collection of the Sh!s!-in 正倉院 in Nara. Washi Jinja is today popularly known as "Otori Sama" and is considered the pre-eminent Tori 酉 (bird) shrine in Japan.so the female had to mate with a snake). and reliquaries placed atop tortoise effigies can still be found in China and Japan.jp and ameblo. Sketch of turtle with seven stars of Big Dipper on its back. for Chinese mythology says their union engendered the universe (there were no male tortoises -.as the ancients believed --. memorial stones. a common symbol for longevity is a snake embracing a tortoise (Genbu 玄武. with My!ken (atop an eagle) moving to Ch!kokuji Temple. half dragon-snake). the 7th star of the Big Dipper.it is the emblem of the north. story by Meri Arichi. as is My!ken. Photo sources narahaku. as are rituals involving My!ken (see Sonj!-! Mandala below). The appearance of this terrapin is recorded in the Shoku Nihongi 続日本紀 (compiled around +797) in book six. ISSN 1368-6534. In both Chinese and Japanese artwork. and one identified with the Zodiac sign of the horse. As mentioned earlier. In Japan. In the two images in the right column. Colorful and decorative kumade 熊手 (rakes) are sold by venders in the shrine and temple compounds -. with the seven stars of the Big Dipper engraved on its shell. The tortoise is the hero of many old legends. extant artwork linking the turtle with the seven stars of the Big Dipper can be traced back to the early 8th century. It helped the first Chinese emperor to tame the Yellow River.the latter is associated with a large white bird. My!ken is worshipped in some quarters as the guardian of horses (and hence. Enter search term "turtle" at this site to read story.5 cm.go. 210). and business success. good fortune.Turtle. or tombs located about 12 miles south of Nara in the Kinki District. Says the temple's official E-site: . and in return was rewarded with a life span of ten thousand years. Thus the tortoise became associated with longevity. held annually in November on the Zodiac day of the rooster. a curious form of My!ken appeared depicting the deity atop an eagle (see photo at right). L = 15 cm credited with creating the still-popular Tori no Ichi 酉の市 (Rooster Day Festival). The multiplex was divided during the forced separation of the Buddha-Kami in the early Meiji period. One of the most popular modern forms of My!ken shows the deity standing atop a turtle (the ancient Chinese guardian of the north). and were reserved for only the highest ranking members of the imperial family or ruling class. who relied upon horses in both warfare and agriculture). Made of Serpentine rock Turtle Entwined with Snake Modern reproduction of painting found at the 7th-8th century Takamatsu 高松塚 Zuka Kofun . In China. Below that we see the actual piece in the collection of the Sh!s!-in 正倉院 in Nara. see photo at right). H = 3. This version of My!ken is associated with the Edo-era temple-shrine multiplex of J"zaisan Ch!kokuji Temple 鷲在山長国 寺 and Washi (Eagle) Shrine 鷲神社 in Tokyo's Asakusa district. the tortoise-snake pairing dates back to the third century AD. during which people come to pray for health. while Washi (Eagle) Jinja became dedicated to Amenohiwashi 天日鷲 and Yamato-Takeru-noMikoto 日本武尊 (Brave Warrior of Yamato) -. Eagle 鷲 (Washi or Otori) During Japan's Edo period (1603 to 1868). Tortoise. or a composite beast known as the Kida 亀蛇 (half turtle.kumade are especially prized by merchants. My!ken is frequently shown standing atop or accompanied by a turtle. who believe the objects have the power to rake in good fortune. which was compiled personally by Emperor Goshirakawa 後白河上皇 (1127-93) and released in 1179." The temple's crests are called Moon Crests or Big Dipper Crests.1135. Edited by Lucia Dolce. and ritual procedures. The Zuz!sh! (Zuzosho) 図像抄. The Ry!jin Hish! (Songs to Make the Dust Dance). Washi My!ken (lit. The section entitled "My!ken Bosatsu" begins with a text that describes the characteristics of the deity.the power to rake in good fortune. My!ken in center. The Ry!jin Hish!. longevity. and it was dedicated to Nichiren. My!ken is mentioned in the Ry!jin Hish! 梁塵秘抄 (Treasured Selections of Superb Songs). or the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Icons. See especially story by scholar Gaynor Sekimori entitled "Star Rituals and Nikk! Shugend!. My!ken was worshiped at that time mainly for the power to cure eye diseases. My!ken Mandala 妙見曼荼羅. Mt. Says the temple's official E-site: "The temple of Ch!koku-ji was established in 1630. the ten volume esoteric iconographic manual compiled c." pages 217250. and it is reputed to bring good fortune and prosperity to all people who worship it. Enshrined in the temple is a statue of Washi My!ken Bodhisattva (see above image). the statue stands on the back of an eagle (washi). Familiarly known as Otori-sama among the people of Edo (now Tokyo). Tokyo) Official Shrine J-Page Official Temple E-Page Photo: This J-Site Artisan of Kumade rakes My!ken Resources & References Zuz!sh!: Esoteric Iconography of My!ken Bosatsu. "Myoken Bosatsu: The Adoption & Adaptation of the Pole Star Deity by Samurai and Townspeople in Pre-modern Japan. the Buddhist priest who founded the sect that is named after him. Says the Japan Society: "The earliest surviving images that can be definitely identified as My!ken Bosatsu appear in the Zuz!sh!. was edited by Ej" 恵什 (1060-1145). and (3) the central divinity Kannon Bosatsu. Haguro 羽黒山. Sanskrit mantra (magic spells). hence its name. The deity often rides a peculiar beast composed of an intertwined serpent and turtle (the guardian of the north). which represents the world in total. . surrounded by the seven stars of the big dipper. Haguro (and the Haguro Shugendo sect) are (1) My!ken Bosatsu. Translation by Arthur Waley. = Eagle My!ken) Washi My!ken Daibosatsu 鷲妙見大菩 Otori Shrine (Asakusa." <end quote by Japan Society. Translation by Yung-Hee Kim. and health. who represents the six marker stars of the south. Special double issue of Culture and Cosmos." > The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. in the early years of the Edo period. this deity's head is often surrounded by the nimbus of the seven celestial sages (of the Big Dipper). who holds a sword in the right hand and has an aureole incorporating the seven stars of the Great Bear constellation. It is the largest extant collection of Japanese songs that flourished between the mid-Heian to the early Kamakura period. In art. (2) Gundari My!-!. The three deities of sacred Mt. the deification of the Pole Star and the Dipper constellation. ISSN 1368-6534. MY#KEN is a warrior and is traditionally appealed to on the eve of battle. Founded in the seven stars of the big dipper. ensenji.hp. Chart this J-site +729 by Monk Gy"ki 行基 as Tokozan Yakushi-ji Temple 東 光山薬師寺 of the Tendai 天台 sect and renamed My"kenzan Kokuseki-ji Temple in +849. ensenji. Three Panels burnet.jp/b-myouken.html My"ken Photos adachi-ke. by Kenjun Yamagishi. Outer court shows the 12 zodiacal mansions (J!ni Ky! 十二宮). Okayama Pref. Oakayama City 岡山市. like Ugajin and Juzenji. This lively festival involves a parade featuring a six-meter-long turtle with a two-meter-long snake head that is carried around town. 420 Taoist-related art works.ne.jp/img/pdf/09. held on the evening of January 7th until the next morning. Kann" Himitsu Sh!h"sh!. The temple is famous for its Kokuseki-ji Sominsai Fire Festival.jp/img/pdf/06.org/title/chintaku-reifujin-kanno-himitsu-shuhoshu/oclc/028352195 鎮宅霊符神. between late 2009 and early 2010.htm Nikk"-Shugend". then Osaka and Nagasaki.net/product/321 My"ken Star Shrine 土御門神道本庁 eonet. 土御門神社（陰陽道）の「鎮宅霊符神」 裟竭龍王 Sagara (Shakara.at. The My"ken Festival at Yatsushiro Shrine 八代神社 (aka My"keng! 妙見宮）in Yatsushiro City 八代市 (Kumamoto Prefecture 熊本県) is held annually for two days on Nov.info/201001/article_2. two attendants kokusekiji.webry. Sha-gara-ryuo) Bernard Faure says: "A representation of Daruma at the Daruma-dera representing him at the center of the twelve animals seems to suggest that. My"kensai 妙見祭. 感應秘密修法集 鎮宅霊符神教 大阪 Major sect that worships this deity in Osaka today.ocnk. Shakatsura-ryuo.htm (standing on turtle) My"ken Photo. 2223.pdf My"ken: J-List of Sanctuaries in Japan. Osaka. in another of his main .htm Online resources about Chintaku Reifujin Japanese book about this deity Chintaku Reifujin. Recommended. The exhibit was held in first in Tokyo. See numerous photos of the festival at this J-site.com/shop/spos-myouken.html My"ky"ji Temple 妙教寺. Recommended. the deity Marishiten is sometimes represented as a female with eight arms.dion.at. A brilliant catalog. My"ken Photo rakushisha.html My"ken Painting. See Marishiten page for details. and worshipped as a guardian of the nation and warriors.com (Takino-o Gongen 滝尾権現 and My"j"ten 明星天子) Modern My"ken Mandala Postcard hachisu-net.webry.Other Japanese Pages of Interest My"ken Research d1.or. worldcat. Various photos above and below (see captions) were scanned from this catalog. This half-snake half-turtle is called a Kida 亀蛇.html Modern My"ken Mandala Postcard hachisu-net. Exhibit catalog published in 2009 by the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art together with the Yomiuri Shimbun.infoseek.com/shop/s-myouken.pdf Notebook . Marishiten is addressed as 天后 queen of heaven. Fabulous exhibit featuring approx.jp/~s_minaga/myoken48.jp/myoken. which perhaps explains why s/he (Marishiten) drives a chariot drawn by seven pigs.Taosim Art 道教の美術.info/201001/article_2. and associated thus with the constellation of Sagittarius and the seven stars of the Little Bear (Little Dipper). two of which are holding aloft the sun disc and moon disc.co.e-tera. Like My"ken.jp/~nunose/009kosya22. Indeed. he was also seen by some as a ruler of "fundamental destiny" (benming).ne. atop turtle.or.html My"ken with Jewel: burnet. My"ken-zan Kokuseki-ji Temple 妙見山 黒石寺. or as 斗姥 (literally "mother of the Southern Measure µ#$%&' or Sagittar(). Online Resources about My"ken My"ken: J-Site with Numerous Photos. Seven Celestial Bodies. The nine luminaries appear often in Japan's Star Mandala and in the Taiz!kai 胎蔵界曼荼羅 or Womb World Mandala.com/2009/07/red-and-smallpox-essay. and compass direction. Saturn. Sanskrit = Nava-Graha. and Keito. Sapta Grah#$). Venus. Shichiy! 七曜. seven are part of another grouping known as the Seven Celestial Bodies (Jp. which excludes Rago and Keito. Mercury. North Water (Mizu 水) Thursday. Rago.seen by some as a ruler of "fundamental destiny" (benming). Skt. and Saturn are associated with one of the five elements (see chart below). are listed below.html Nine Luminaries. the Sh!rinzan Daruma-dera. West Metal (Kane 金) Saturday. in other words. Center Earth (Tsuchi 土) Lunar Ascending Southeast. he is openly associated with Chintaku Reifujin. The Japanese and Sanskrit names of the nine. Jupiter. Moon. day of the week. Chinese = Ji" Yào. plus their associations. Among the nine. Jupiter.blogspot. Five Planets Japanese = Kuy! (Kuyo) 九曜 or Kushitsu 九執. Spirit Causing Eclipses Lunar Desending Southwesｔ a comet Japanese Nichiy! 日曜 Nichiy!sh! 日曜星 Gatsuy! 月曜 Gatsuy!sh! 月曜星 Kay! 火曜 Kay!sh! 火曜星 Suiy! 水曜 Suiy!sh! 水曜星 Mokuy! 木曜 Mokuy!sh! 木曜星 Kiny! 金曜 Kiny!sh! 金曜星 Doy! 土曜 Doy!sh! 土曜星 Ragoy! 羅 曜 Ragosei 羅 星 Ragosh! 羅 星 Keitoy! 計都曜 Keitosei 計都星 Keitosh! 計都星 Sanskrit & Chinese %ditya C = 阿彌底耶 S!ma C = 蘇摩 A&g#raka C = 哦囉 Budha (not Buddha) C = 部陀 Other Notes 太陽・日星・日精 associated with Kannon 太陰・月星・暮太陽 火星・ケイ惑星・火精・勢惑勞 associated with one of five elements 水星・辰星・水精 associated with one of five elements 木星・歳星・木精 associated with one of five elements 金星・太白星・金精 associated with Seishi or Amida associated with one of five elements 土星・鎮星・鎭星・土精 associated with one of five elements 黄幡星・ 神頭・太陽首 B'haspati C = 勿哩訶娑跛底 Sukra C = 戌羯羅 (anai)cara C = 乃以室折羅 R#hu C=羅 星 Ketu C = 計都 Venus Saturn Rago Ketu 彗星・ 尾星・ 神尾・月勃力 . Mars. My!ken. The nine celestial luminaries are the Sun. in another of his main cultic centers. See darumasan. Each is associated with a specific deity. East Wood (Ki 木) Friday. Indeed. Venus. South Fire (Hi 火) Wednesday. Celestial Body Sun Moon Mars Mercury Jupiter Day & Attributes Sunday Northeast Monday Northwest Tuesday. The five planets Mars. Mercury. the god of the Northern Asterism. Zodiac belief was combined with worship of the seven stars of the Big Dipper. It appears that the seven stars of the Big Dipper were conflagrated / confused with the Nine Luminaries (Kuy! 九曜) presented in the above table. In Japan. Shichiy!sh! 七曜星). Venus. Moon. Seven Big Dipper Stars & Deities Jp. and held rites to the Big Dipper to avoid catastrophe and ensure longevity and health. = Hokuto Shichisei 北斗七星 Origin = China. These beliefs and practices are still alive in Japan's modern-day esoteric sects. The Pole Star and the Big Dipper were important elements in Chinese Taoist cosmology well before Buddhism arrived in China in the 1st-2nd centuries AD. there is another grouping of seven stars known as the Seven Stars of the Big Dipper (Jp. Mercury. each of the seven stars was combined with the zodiac signs. The Japanese imported the practice of star worship from China during the Nara Period (710-794 AD). which were said to control one's human destiny. Japanese Names for Big Dipper & Seven Stars Hokuto （Big Dipper) 北斗  Hokuto Shichisei 北斗七星 (Seven Stars of Big Dipper)  Nanatsuboshi 七星 (Seven Stars of Big Dipper)  Shichiy!boshi 七曜星 (Seven Stars of the Big Dipper) Shichiy!sei 七曜星 (Seven Stars of the Big Dipper) Hishakuboshi ひしゃく星 (Seven Stars of the Big Dipper) Hotoku no Shichi Bosatsu 北斗の七菩 (Seven Bosatsu of the Big Dipper) Big Dipper Cult and Zodiac Belief In Japan's Heian period (794-1185). Jupiter. Rago. Mars. In the Sutra of the Big Dipper for Prolonging Life (Hokuto Shichisei Enmei-Ky! 北斗七星延命経). and incorporate elements of China's Yin-Yang philosophies. Saturn. = Kuy! 九曜) Sun.Photos from this J-site Deities of the Planets & Celestial Bodies (Jp. thereby yielding one's personal star based on one's birth star (Honmy!sh! 本命星): . and Keito NOTE OF CONFUSION. Monkey Snake. also sometimes called the 28 moon lodges or 28 stations of the moon. 陽徳を司る Yin. The twelve houses of the Zodiac. followed by Thursday from 1am to 2am. Mongokush! 5. Thursday. Rench!sh! 6. Nitten 日天 (sun) and Gatten 月天 (moon). Deification of the Polestar and/or Big Dipper. Monday. The twenty-eight lunar mansions (Skt. Wednesday. GLOSSARY OF JAPANESE TERMS & CELESTIAL CONCEPTS Hokuto Mandala 北斗曼荼羅 (Big Dipper Mandala). My!ken (Myoken) 妙見. Sheep Horse Buddhist Counterpart Nichirin Bosatsu 日輪菩 Gachirin Bosatsu 月輪菩 Z!ch! Bosatsu 増長菩 Jiz! Bosatsu 地蔵菩 Kong!shu (Fugen) Bosatsu 金剛手菩 K!my!sh! 光明照菩 Notes Yang. no. Mars. Moon. Zodiac Associations. 425-426 Seven Big-Dipper Stars. Saturday begins the sequence from midnight to 1am. The 28 points in the moon's . no. See above for details. pp. and Keito 計都 (Skt = Ketu). Komonsh! 3. Jupiter. Rooster Dragon. Pig Tiger. Saturn. which are the Sun. . Sunday. Mugokush! Bukyokush! 7. etc. Kuy! 九曜 or Kushitsu 九執. Rago 羅ご (Skt = Rahu). Hagunsh! Sino-Japanese 貪狼星 巨門星 禄存星 文曲星 廉貞星 武曲星 破軍星 Zodiac Animal Rat Ox. 1306. they are typically depicted in the Gekong!buin 外金剛部院 section of the Matrix Mandara (aka Taiz!kai Mandala or Womb World Mandala 胎蔵界曼荼羅). Tuesday. Rokuzonsh! 4. See expanded listing of the seven stars / nine luminaries by clicking here.Seven deities of the Big Dipper. the day-deity association is unclear to me. Friday. 1306. also known as the zodiacal mansions. Sources: Butsuz!-zu-i 仏像図彙 as well as the Hokuto Shichisei Enmei-Ky! 北斗七星延命経. A generic type of Mandala 曼荼羅 dedicated to the celestial entities. = naksatras). HOWEVER. & Other Attributes Japanese Name 1. Hoshi Mandala 星曼荼羅. and Gakk! Bosatsu 月光菩 Nij"hasshuku 二十八宿. followed by Tuesday from 2am to 3am. Dog Rabbit. T-21. Venus. Visit this J-site for photos of the 12 zodiac houses found in the Star Mandala of Japan's Shingon sect. which is Saturday. pp. Nikk! Bosatsu 日光菩 might also be included in this category. Donr!sh! or Tonr!sh! 2. See above. and including the Hokuto Mandala 北斗曼荼羅 (Big Dipper Mandala). Mercury. The nine planets. 425-426 . Buddhist Counterparts. 障害を司る 中央・四方を司る 天食五穀を司る 兵事を司る 天理を司る Ekosh! Bosatsu 依怙衆菩 The Seven Big Dipper Stars rule sequentially over the hours in a 24-hour day in a set order. 陰刑を司る Yin. J"niky" (or) J"nig" 十二宮. Photo Source: T-21. The topic of this page. This scheme was apparently incorporated in early Buddhism. Marduk. This yielded a total of twentyeight combinations. this displacement had to be justified. the 28 Yaksas (protective spirits). the great Khmer (Cambodian) Buddhist shrine. It is now known that those pyramids were oriented to Orion and. The flying dragon whose abode is the heavens is universally recognized as a symbol of the Chinese culture and its people. They appear in the form of celestial maidens (seven in each quarter) and also in the Hokuto Mandara 北斗曼荼羅 (see above). In Chinese astrology. Y!shuku 曜宿. can mate with people." It is believed that on rare occasions dragons have the power to transform themselves into handsome humans who. male or female. Naturally. there were four celestial "palaces" in the sky (representing the four cardinal directions). and other heavenly objects that were incorporated into Buddhism and deified. It has been demonstrated that Angkor Wat. for Buddhism has 28 Heavens (Skt. the 28 Legions protecting Kannon Bodhisattva. The number 28 represents many different important concepts in both ancient cosmology and early Buddhism. but impressively. including the sun. For example. there is no bright star in the configuration. the passages in the great pyramid at Gizeh (Egypt) once acted as channels for the light of the star that is called Thuban. The 28 points in the moon's monthly orbit were deified. planets. which is often used in Asia as the crest or emblem of a royal house. Visit this J-site found in the Star Mandala of Japan's Shingon sect.net ) Around 1. and the 28 constellations. to Leo. To the observer of today. In Japan. Yet. in the era of 10. POLE STAR RESEARCH DRACO LORE. moon." It refers to the celestial bodies. eighteen of the form world. for example. stars. each corresponding to seven stations (or lodges) of the moon's path overhead. The transition from one ruling celestial system to another is marked in the mythologies of the world by accounts of the overthrow of Titans (Greek) or Ashuras (Indian) by Gods or Devas.150 CE the constellation of the Dragon was upside down over the site's medieval buildings. for photos of the seven Shukuy! 宿曜. which include six of the desire world. The Japanese term for "constellation. a star in the constellation known as Draco or Dragon. in 1. It is thus very likely that the 28 Benefits of venerating Jiz! stem from the same influence." See entry for Seishuku above. the celestial indicator (the "pole star") was not the modern-day North Star (Polaris). planets. former Japanese Emperor Hirohito claimed descent from Princess Fruitful Jewel. Why the Number 28? This is not easily explained. However. is considered by devotees of the newer deity. they are commonly depicted in the Gekong!buin 外金剛部院 section of the Matrix Mandara (aka Taiz!kai Mandala. constellations. nor is the answer definitive. There are the 28 Patriarchs of Mahayana Buddhism. Chinese refer to themselves as "Descendents of the Dragon. was built in alignment with this celestial formation. . Celestial bodies. The list goes on and on. The seven days of the weeks. Tiamat of the early Mesopotamians.500 BC. It is this belief that lies at the root of the dragon. daughter of a sea Dragon King. = Devalokas). and so the serpentine heavenly Mother. etc. Shichiy! 七曜. all deified. Womb World Mandala 胎蔵界曼荼羅) of the Shingon and Tendai sects. as an evil draconian monster.800 BC. Draco is the 8th largest of the conventional constellations curving from the "pointers" of the Dipper (Ursa Minor) to brilliant Vega. Seishukubu 星宿部.also sometimes called the 28 moon lodges or 28 stations of the moon. moons. but rather Thuban. at the time of the building of the Sphinx. Dragon Star Constellation (courtesy Khandro. Seishuku (or) Shoshuku 星宿. Literally "sidereal division. and four of the formless heavens. traces of the very earliest structures there mirrored the Dragon constellation exactly. celestial orbs. Another term for "constellation." A term used sometimes to refer collectively to the celestial bodies that have been deified in the esoteric Buddhist pantheon. Hiei 比叡 (Shiga Prefecture. a prolific 8th-century translator who was one of the most politically powerful Buddhist monks in Chinese history. T 1300. Its long name is 文殊師利菩 及諸仙所説吉凶時日善悪宿曜経. and are associated with the seven stars of the Big Dipper.392c6.l. The so-called Upper Seven Sann! Shrines (Sann! Kami no Shichisha 山 王上七社) form the core of the Sann! complex.410-420 Mat!ga ky! 摩登伽経 (S"tra of the M#ta$g% Girl. are known as the Big Hiei group. Muller) JAANUS (Japanese Architecture & Art Net Users System) Star Charts and Moon Stations by Steve Renshaw and Saori Ihara Japanese Site Devoted to Star Deities Download Sutras from the Tokyo Univerity Page SAT REFERENCES FOR NINE LUMINARIES Plus Seven Celestial Bodies and Five Planets Butsuz!-zu-i 仏像図彙. These three Kami are Omiya (大宮). T 551. The text was reportedly brought to Japan by K"kai 空海 in the 9th century. Ninomiya (二宮).14.21.utokyo. The Chinese translation is attributed to Amoghavajra (Jp. the "Collected Illustrations of Buddhist Images. RESOURCES: Shukuy!-ky! 宿曜経. Also read as Sukuy!ky!. = 不空金剛 Fuk" Kong!). They in turn represent the three most important Shinto KAMI (deities) of the Hie shrine complex." Published in 1690 (Genroku . Special double issue of Culture and Cosmos.399-410) Mad!jo ky! 摩鄧女經 (S"tra of the M#ta$g% Girl. (Monjushiri Bosatsu kyuu shosen shosetsu kikky! jijitsu zen-aku shukuy!k-y!). who are Shaka. Tang-era Chinese translation from Sanskrit. This is the abbreviated name of the sutra. T 1301.the three groupings represent the three main Buddha/Kami of the Tendai complex. They are associated with Shaka. LINK: www.jp/~sat/japan/downpage/v21. Edited by Lucia Dolce.html Shukuy!giki 宿曜儀軌 Tang-era Chinese translation from Sanskrit Shat!kanky! 舎頭諫経 or 舍頭諫太子二十八宿經 Admonition of the Prince and the 28 Lunar Lodgings.426 七曜星辰別行法 The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice .TENDAI SECT & BIG DIPPER There are a total of 21 shrines at the syncretic Tendai shrine-temple multiplex located at Mt.895) Shichiy! j!sai ketsu 七曜攘災決 Expelling the Seven Planets' Fated Calamities. T 1299. Digital Dictionary of Buddhism (C. These 21 shrines are split into three groups of seven -. known as the "21 Sann! Group" (Sann! Nij"issha 山王二十一社).ac.21. Yakushi.21.. and Amida. near Kyoto). One of the main sources for the 28 Constellations. Useful publication with many illustrations. and Sh!shinshi (聖真子). ISSN 1368-6534.21. T 1308. or.html buddhism-dict.or. Fall.jp/~sat/ mandalar. Red.ac.xml+id('b4e8c-5341-516b-5bbf') sakai.kyoto-u.go.com/astronomy/constellation28. Fire Dragon = East. First published in 1993. Black.u-tokyo. Hundreds of pages and drawings.xml+id('b4e8c-5341-516b-5bbf') reihokan.pl?4e. Language = Japanese. The Mandala Dictionary.jp/piicats/setsubunn. ISBN-10: 480461102-9. = Four Heavenly Kings (Buddhist) Four guardians of the four compass directions. 422 pages. Tortoise (Black Warrior) = North.html en.Butsuz!-zu-i 仏像図彙. Blue/Green. Wood SHITENNO Lit. Winter.zaq. Modern-day reprints are avaiable for purchase at most large Japanese book stores.com/TattooBurst/index.net/cgi-bin/xpr-ddb. Summer.ac.html hm. Spring. Click here to purchase book from Amazon.jp/~wittern/can/can4/t21/t21n1304.tyg." Published in 1690 (Genroku 元禄 3). Water White Tiger (Kirin) = West.htm kanji.html chinapage.html kyohaku. with deities classified into approximately 80 (eighty) categories.jp/eng/dictio/data/kaiga/mandara.ne.pl?4e.org/wiki/Shijin l. with drawings by Tosa Hidenobu 土佐秀信 and text by Ito Takemi 伊藤武美. . Digital Dictionary of Buddhism (sign in with user name "guest") Wikipedia (J-Site) OTHERS REFERENCES 妙見菩 と日蓮聖人 aisf.com/sindan/tc_3. Associated closely with China's Five Element Theory.tyg. Metal Red Bird (Phoenix) = South.wikipedia.htm Shishin or Shijin (Japanese) 4 Guardians of Compass (Each with 7 Constellations) Celestial Emblems of Chinese Emperor Click any creature to jump to that page.net/cgi-bin/xpr-ddb.html hm.jp/~jaanus/deta/b/butchou. Publisher = Daihorinkaku 大法輪閣. Mandara Zuten 曼荼羅図典 (Japanese Edition).htm sukuyou.jp/~acmuller/canon/1048_.htm mandalar. One of Japan's first major studies of Buddhist iconography. or click here to purchase online. the "Collected Illustrations of Buddhist Images. White.jp/syuzohin/hotoke/mandara/28syuku.zinbun.com/TattooBurst/index.html#p0392c06 buddhism-dict.jp/~acmuller/canon/1299_. Copyright 1995 . K!mokuten 広目天. 133.onmarkproductions. Mark Schumacher. Email Mark.2012.5 cm in Height Photos from Comprehensive Dictionary of Japan's Nat'l Treasures 国宝大事典 (西川 杏太郎.Four Shitenno. by Schumacher.com | make a donation Please do not copy these pages into Wikipedia or elsewhere without proper citation ! . Each Statue Approx. Jikokuten 持国天 Painted Wood. H!ry"ji Temple 法隆寺. Nara Mid-7th Century. Tamonten 多門天. ISBN 4-06-187822-0. unless specified otherwise. www. Z!ch!ten 増長天. All stories and photos. Oldest extant set of the four.