In later centuries, however, Tamonten became the object of an independent cult, supplanting the other three in importance. The Four Kings soon rose to great prominence in rites to safeguard the Japanese nation. This armor-clad, weapon-wielding, demon-stomping deity was introduced to Japan in the 6th century AD as one of the four Shitennō (Four Heavenly Kings Protecting the Four Directions), wherein he is known as Tamonten 多聞天, the guardian of the north and protector of the holy places where Buddha expounds the teachings. Defender of the Nation, Guardian of the Dharma (Buddhist Law), and Lord of Wealth and Treasure (hence his inclusion in the Japanese group of Seven Lucky Gods). References: Flammarion Iconographic Guide - Buddhism Virtue for the Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu (1623-1650 AD). Jigen Daishi) symbolized each of the seven with an essential Monk Tenkai (who died in 1643 and was posthumously named The grouping changed over time, but a standardized setĪppeared by the 17th century. That appeared from the 15th century onward. Japan's Seven Lucky Gods are a popular grouping of deities The stupa represents the divine treasure house of Buddha's teachings. Holding his main identifying attribute - the stupa / pagoda - in left hand. Stone statue in private garden, Kamakura (Japan), early 20th century, Protector of Buddhism, Guardian of the Northĭispenser of Riches, Defender of the Nation, Scourge ofĮvil Doers, Healer of Ilness, Commander of the ShitennōĪs Tobatsu Bishamon, protects capitals & repels foreign invaders Photo courtesy Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Photo: Comprehensive Dictionary of Japan's National Japan's oldest extant statue of Tamonten. Photo from Dazaifu Museumħth C., Hōryūji Temple 法隆寺, Nara. Wood (Kusu 樟), H 160 cm, Ichiboku Zukuri, Kanzeonji 観世音寺.

Bishamonten monster strike