LIST

Commentary

This is a standing statue of Fudo Myo-o (also known as Acala). "Fudo Myo-o" is a deity of salvation that forces the people tainted by earthly desires into submission. The sword and lasso he holds in both hands represent how he captures individuals who are wandering aimlessly and frees them from their earthly desires, while the flames that burn fiercely behind him represent how he completely consumes such earthly desires with fire. This statue was built to offer up prayers for Kobo Daishi's journey to Tang dynasty China, on the order of his teacher Keika-oshō, and it was carved as a faithful reproduction of the hidden Buddhist image "Namikiri Fudoson" of Nan-in Temple in Koyasan, which is traditionally said to have saved Kobo Daishi during his journey home through stormy weather at sea. This venerable statue can thus be said to be a precious reminder of the relationship between Zentsu-ji and Koyasan.

Designated Section

ー

Structure

Wooden statue: 82.4cm in height

Era

Edo Period

Address

Zentsu-ji Treasure Hall, 3-3-1 Zentsuji-cho, Zentsuji City, Kagawa Prefecture