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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. = = Nij"hasshuku Chn. = = rshb# s 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.

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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 ) and Star Mandala (Hoshi Mandara ) 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 Modern Japanese Reproduction Ichijikinrin Butch! 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 (Tortoise) Black, Winter Water, Cold, Void GROUPING ONE - CHINA, JAPAN Northern Moon Lodges
Japanese Reading | Chinese | Sanskrit Source: Shukuy!-ky!

GROUPING TWO - JAPAN Deities in GENZU MANDALA

Shingon/Tendai Deities (Celestial Females)
Jp. Reading | Chinese | (Sanskrit) | Deity Name

1 Toshuku Uttara-A"#$h# 2 Gy%shuku Abhijit 3 Joshuku &rava'# 4 Kyoshuku &ravi"(ha (Dhani"(h#) 5 Kishuku &atabhi"# 6 Shisshuku P%rva-Pro"(hapada 7 Hekishuku Uttara-Pro"(hapada

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Kyoshuku (Dhanistha) Kishuku (Satabhisaj) Shisshuku (Purvabhadrapada) Hekishuku (Uttara-bhadrapada) Keishuku (Revati) R!shuku (Asvini) Ishuku (Bharani)

TURTLE'S BUDDHIST COUNTERPART = BISHAMONTEN 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.

, , , , , , ,

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 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)

SOUTH Seven Lunar Mansions of the Red Bird

(Two Common Japanese Groupings for Seven Southern Moon Lodges)

SUZAKU (Red Bird) South, Red Summer, Fire GROUPING ONE - CHINA, JAPAN Southern Moon Lodges
Japanese Reading | Chinese | Sanskrit Source: Shukuy!-ky!

GROUPING TWO - JAPAN Deities in GENZU MANDALA

Shingon/Tendai Deities (Celestial Females)
Jp. Reading | Chinese | (Sanskrit) | Deity Name

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Seishuku Punarvasu Kishuku Ti"ya (or Pu"ya) Ry#shuku A$le"% Seishuku Magh% Ch!shuku P#rva-Phalgun& Yokushuku Uttara-Phalgun& Shinshuku Hast%

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Seishuku (Magha) Ch!shuku (Purva-phalguni) Yokushuku (Uttara-phalguni) Shinshuku (Hasta) Kakushuku (Citra) K!huku (Svati) Teishuku (Visakha)

RED BIRD'S BUDDHIST COUNTERPARTS = PHOENIX & Z!CH!TEN 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.

, , , , , , ,

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 Shingon Sect of Esoteric Japanese Buddhism. Click image to enlarge.
Source: Museum Reihokan Koyasan (J-Site, Shingon)

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, 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)

EAST Seven Lunar Mansions of the Blue-Green Dragon

(Two Common Japanese Groupings for Seven Eastern Moon Lodges)

SEIRYUU (Dragon) East, Blue-Green Spring, Wood GROUPING ONE - CHINA, JAPAN Chinese | Sanskrit Names Eastern Moon Lodges
Source: Shukuy!-ky!

GROUPING TWO - JAPAN Deities in GENZU MANDALA

Shingon/Tendai Deities (Celestial Females)
Jp. Reading | Chinese | (Sanskrit) | Deity Name

1 Kakushuku Citr" 2 K!shuku Ni#$y" (or Sv"ti) 3 Teishuku Vi%"kh" 4 B!shuku Anur"dh" 5 Shinshuku Rohi&', Jye#$haghn' 6 Bishuku M(labarha&' (or M(la) 7 Kishuku P(rva-A#"dha

1 B!shuku (Krttika) 2 Hisshuku (Rohini) 3 Shishuku (Mrgasiras) 4 Sanshuku (Ardra) 5 Seishuku (Punarvasu) 6 Kishuku (Pusya) 7 Ry(shuku (Aslesa)

DRAGON'S BUDDHIST COUNTERPART = JIKOKUTEN 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.

, , , , , , ,

Horns (perhaps Angle, Corner), Su Boshi, Citr" (Alpha Vir, Spica) Neck, Throat, Ami Boshi, Ni#$y" or Sv"ti (Kappa Vir, Virgo) Root or Shoulder, Tomo Boshi, Vi%"kh") (Iota Lib, Alpha Lib, Libra) Chamber or Breasts, Soi Boshi, Anur"dh" (Delto Sco, Pi Scho, Libra) Heart, Nakago Boshi, Rohi&' or Jye#$haghn' or Jye#$h" (Sigma Sco, Antares) Tail, Ashitare Boshi, M(labarha&' or M(la (Mu Sco, Scorpius) Basket, Mi Boshi, P(rva-A#"dh" (Gamma Sgr, Eta Sgr, Sagittrius)

EAST Seven Celestial Maidens in Eastern Cluster, Genzu Mandala Shingon Sect of Esoteric Japanese Buddhism. Click image to enlarge.
Source: Museum Reihokan Koyasan (J-Site, Shingon)

WEST

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 (White Tiger) White, Autumn, Metal GROUPING ONE - CHINA, JAPAN Chinese | Sanskrit Names Western Moon Lodges
Source: Shukuy!-ky!

GROUPING TWO - JAPAN Deities in GENZU MANDALA

Shingon/Tendai Deities (Celestial Females)
Jp. Reading | Chinese | (Sanskrit) | Deity Name

1 Keishuku Revat" 2 R!shuku A#vayuj (or A#vin") 3 Ishuku Apabhara$" (or Bhara$") 4 B!shuku K%ttik& 5 Hisshuku Rohi$" 6 Shishuku Invak& (or M%ga#iras) 7 Shinshuku B&hu (or (rdr&)

1 B!shuku (Anuradha) 2 Shinshuku (Jyesth) 3 Bishuku (Mula) 4 Kishuku (Purvasadha) 5 Toshuku (Uttarasadha) 6 Gy'shuku (Abhijit) 7 Joshuku (Sravana)

WHITE TIGER'S BUDDHIST COUNTERPART = K!MOKUTEN 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.

, , , , , , ,

Stride / Foot, Tokaki Boshi, Revat" (Delta And, Andromeda) Hill / Lasso / Bellows, Tatara Boshi, A#vayuj or A#vin" (Beta Ari, Aries) Stomach, Ekie Boshi, Apabhara$" or Bhara$" (35 Ari, Aries) Stopping Place / United, Subaru Boshi, K%ttik& (17 Tau, 16 Tau, Pleiades) Net (related to Rain?), Amefuri Boshi, Rohi$" (Epsilon Tau, Taurus) Turtle Snout, Toroki Boshi, Invak& or M%ga#iras (Lamda Ori, Phi Ori, Orion) Investigate / Three, Kagasuki Boshi, B&hu / (rdr& (Delta or Beta Ori, Orion)

WEST Seven Celestial Maidens in Western Cluster, Genzu Mandala Shingon Sect of Esoteric Japanese Buddhism. Click image to enlarge.
Source: Museum Reihokan Koyasan (J-Site, Shingon)

Source of Below Diagram of 28 Celestial Maidens:

Philipp Franz von Siebold. 1832-54 Nippon. Archiv zur Beschreibung von Japan. Nippon Archiv zur Beschreibung von Japan, Leiden (1831 CE)

Learn about this monumental pre-Meiji publication at this outside site .

JAPANESE MANTRAS FOR 28 CELESTIAL DEITIES

Courtesy this J-Site EAST: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. SOUTH: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. WEST: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. NORTH: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Big Dipper Mandala (Mandara)

Big Dipper Mandala (Mandara)

Hokuto Mandala . Big Dipper Mandala. Used when performing the Hokutoh! or "Big Dipper Rite" for averting natural disasters and calamities. Classified as a Besson Mandala dedicated to specific deities. Although also classified as a type of Hoshi (Star) Mandala -- ones that represent the deification of heavenly bodies -- the Hokuto Mandala is primarily centered on a single deity named Ichijikinrin Butch! (see Ichijikinrin Mandala), who commonly assumes the form of Shaka Kinrin (Gold Wheel Shaka) in artwork. Shaka Kinrin is a manifestation of Shaka Buddha (the Historical Buddha), one in which Shaka is holding a golden wheel in his hands, with the wheel placed on the lap and the hands forming the Hokkai J!in Mudra (dharma-realm meditation mudra). In the Hokuto Mandara, Shaka Kinrin is often shown surrounded by the seven stars of the Big Dipper, by the nine planets, by the 12 signs of the Zodiac, and by the deities of the 28 lunar mansions. The Tendai sect uses a circular mandara (a renowned example is preserved at H!ry"ji Temple in Nara, while the Shingon Sect uses a square mandara (preserved at Kumedadera in Osaka). See photos of both on our Mandala Glossary page. The disposition of the deities varies somewhat. Some variants of the Hokuto Mandara include the My!ken Mandara centered on My!ken Bodhisattva (Jp. = Bosatsu), the T!hon Hokuto Mandala devoted to Shij!k! Butch! , and the Taoistinfluenced Sh"nanzan Mandara .

Hokuto Mandala Heian Period. Square version. Kumedadera Temple , Osaka. 28 deities in outer frame, 12 zodiac signs in middle frame, with days & planets and main deity in central frame. Ichijikinrin Butch! at center. Ichijikinrin (aka Shaka Kinrin) is another form of Shaka (Historical Buddha). Photo this Jsite. DESCRIPTION. Says the Kyoto National Museum : "Under the central Buddha are seven medallions shaped like an "S" turned on its side, or a scoop. Inside each medallion is a figure wearing a headdress. These are the Seven Stars of the Big Dipper, the most important stars in the Star Mandala. They are shaped like this to represent the constellation of the big dipper. Other medallions in the center section represent planets such as Mercury, Venus and Saturn, and the Sun and Moon."

Hokuto Mandala Heian (Fujiwara) Period Circular version, H!ry"ji Temple , Nara Kakemono. Color & gold leaf on silk. L = 118.2 cm, W = 83.3 cm

28 deities in outer circle, 12 zodiac signs in next circle, days and planets in inner circle, and main deity Ichijikinrin Butch! at center. Ichijikinrin (aka Shaka Kinrin) is an emanation of Shaka Nyorai (Historical Buddha). Photo courtesy this J-site.

DESCRIPTION. Considered the greatest of extant paintings of Star Mandalas. Such mandala, either round or square, were used when petitioning for relief from disasters or to pray for longevity. Says the Kyoto National Museum : "These days it is more common to tell fortunes from the twelve signs of the zodiac, but in the old days it was more common to tell fortunes from the seven stars of the Big Dipper. Your fate depended on which of the seven stars was ruling on the month and day you were born. The ruling star on the day the fortune telling is performed was also important. The sun, moon and planets and the twenty-eight signs played secondary roles to the seven stars of the Big Dipper. People prayed to these stars to help prevent disasters and to live longer."

Star Mandala Kong!buji Temple Mt. K!ya , Wakayama Pref. Center = Ichijikinrin Butch! ?? 7 stars of Big Dipper plus 9 planets in inner ring, 12 Zodiac Animals in middle ring, 28 lunar Mansions in outer ring. Courtesy Museum Reihokan Koyasan

Star Mandala Sh!hj!shin-in Temple, Mt. K!ya , Wakayama Pref. Center = Ichijikinrin Butch! ?? 7 stars of Big Dipper plus 9 Planets in inner ring, 12 Zodiac Animals in middle ring, 28 lunar Mansions in outer ring. Courtesy Museum Reihokan Koyasan

Genzu Mandala (Mandara)

Literally the "current depiction" of the Taiz!kai Mandala in Japan, commonly known in English as the "Womb World Mandala." Says JAANUS: A version of the Taiz!kai Mandala that is widely used today in Japan. The original version, brought to Japan from China by K"kai (774-835), was kept at T!ji Temple (Kyoto), but because it began to show signs of wear in K"kai's later years, a copy was made in 821, year of the reign of Emperor K!nin , so this first copy is known as the K!nin Version. The version presently used at T!ji is the fourth copy, made in the Genroku era (late 17c), and is known as the Genroku Version. In addition, three mandala fragments were discovered in 1954 in the attic of the treasure house (h!z! ) at T!ji Temple, and of these the so-called K!hon (Version A) is thought to be a fragment of the second copy of the Genzu Mandala, made in 1191, while the so-called Einin Version is thought to be a fragment of the third copy, made in 1296 (Einin 4). The Genzu Mandala is considered to have been brought to completion by K"kai's teacher, Huiguo (Jp. = Keika, 746-805), and it represents the final form of the Taiz!kai Mandala, which evolved from the mandala of the Dainichi-ky! (Skt. = Vairocanabhisambodhi Sutra) via the Taiz! Zuz! and Taiz! Ky"zuy! . Its composition varies somewhat, but it consists of approximately 400 deities systematically arranged in 12 sections called: 1. Ch"dai-hachiy!-in 2. Henchi-in 3. Jimy!-in

4. Rengebu-in

5. Kong!shu-in 6. Shaka-in

7. Kok"z!-in 8. Monju-in 10. Jiz!-in 9. Soshitsuji-in or Soshitchi-in

11. Jogaish!-in

12. Gekong!bu-in (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. The term "Genzu (current depiction) was first used by Godai-in Annen (841-889/898?) of the Tendai sect. Later, in his Shosetsu Fud!ki a detailed comparison of the iconography of the deities depicted in the Taiz!kai Mandara, the imperial

 a detailed comparison of the iconography of the deities depicted in the Taiz!kai Mandara, the imperial prince and Buddhist priest Shinjaku (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 (809-884) and preserved in the Tendai sect, and it subsequently passed into general usage. The term "Genzu" should therefore be used to refer to the current depiction of the Taiz#kai Mandala. <end JAANUS quote>

My!ken (Skt. = Sudrsti, Sudar"ana) Deification of North Pole Star & Little Dipper
Origin = Chinese folk worship of the North Pole Star. My!ken is the deification of the North Pole Star (Hokushin ) of the Little Bear constellation (Ursa Minor), as well as the deification of the Big Dipper (Ursa Major). The term My!ken literally means heavenly eyes, heavenly sight, penetrating sight, one who sees all, or simply "good eyesight." In Japan, worship of the northern Pole Star along with the seven stars of the Big Dipper (Hokuto Shichisei ) is a syncretic blend of Buddhism, Taoism, Onmy!d! (Yin-Yang Divination), and local kami cults, but it is especially important within Esoteric Buddhism, and from the Heian period (794-1180) onward, My!ken was venerated under various guises as the central star controlling all other celestial bodies, one believed to control the life and fortunes of the people, one who protected not only the emperor and country, but also warded off diseases, prevented calamities of fire and other disasters, increased life spans, and healed eye diseases. As a deification of the Pole Star, My!ken was also worshipped as the deity of safe voyages and navigators. In Japan, even today, s/he is venerated at both Buddhist temples and Shint! shrines. However, since the forced separation of Buddhism and Shint!ism in the Meiji Period (18681912), shrines commonly replaced My!ken with a Shint! kami counterpart known as Ame no Minakanushi no Mikoto (Lord of the Center of the Sky). Details below. My!ken goes by many different names in Japan. The Japanese court regarded the Pole Star as an imperial symbol and worshipped its deification as Sonsh!-! (Sonj!-!, Sonshoo, Sonsei-!; the "Monarch of the Venerable Star"), but in the eastern provinces and among samurai warriors, the deity was venerated as My!ken , My!ken Son , or My!ken Daibosatsu . In Yin-Yang circles (Onmy!d! ), the deity was prayed to as Chintaku Reifujin , who in turn was sometimes known as the Taoist deity Taizan Fukun or Taiichi , the Great One. <Source: Lucia Dolce, pp. 16-17, The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. > As a deification of the North Pole Star, My!ken is closely associated with the Little Dipper (where the north star is located). But because of confusion between the Little Dipper and Big Dipper, she is also known as Hokushin Bosatsu (Pole Star My!ken), Hokuto My!ken Bosatsu (Big Dipper My!ken), or Hokuto-ten (Deva of the Big Dipper). My!ken is also held in high esteem, even today, by Japan's Nichiren sect, for the deity reportedly assisted sect founder and radical reformer Nichiren Sh!nin (1222-82). Among samurai and peasants, My!ken is considered the guardian of warriors, horses, and farmers, and is worshipped in this role especially at sacred Mt. My!ken in Nose (near Osaka), a Nichiren stronghold, where My!ken appears as a warrior brandishing a sword over his head (see photo below). Horses were especially important in battle and in harvesting crops, hence the association with warriors and farmers. In the Jimon branch of the Tendai sect, My!ken images resemble or are equated with Kichij!ten (the Goddess of Beauty, Fertility, Prosperity, and Merit).

My!ken Spellings Jp. = Sonsh!-! Jp. = My!ken Son Jp. = My!ken Bosatsu Jp. = My!ken Daibosatsu Jp. = Chintaku Reifujin Jp. = Hokushin Bosatsu Jp. = Hokuto My!ken Jp. = Hokuto-ten Jp. = Taiisu Hokushin Sonj! Jp. = Taiitsu J!tei (Confucianism) Jp. = Taikyoku Genshi (Diviners) Jp. = Ame no Minakanushi Jp. = Kunitokotachi no Mikoto Jp. = My!ken-shin or My!ken-jin Jp. = Shinmu Taiitsu J!tei Rei! Tenson Sanskrit = Sudar"ana, Sudrsti Chn. = Miojin Ps (Miao Chien) Krn. = Myogyeon Bosal, My!ken Mantra On Sochirishuta Sowaka On Makashiri-ei Shibei Sowaka

My!ken Sanskrit Seed Pronounced SO in Japanese

Beauty, Fertility, Prosperity, and Merit). The first evidence of the My!ken cult at the Japanese court is recorded in 785 AD <source: Nakamura p. 85>. By the early 9th century, stories of My!ken's miraculous powers appeared in the Nihon Ry!iki (aka Nihon Rei-iki or Nippon Reiiki). The full title of this text is Nihonkoku Genp! Zen'aku Ry!iki , commonly translated as "Miraculous Stories of Karmic Retribution of Good and Evil in Japan." In this book of Buddhist legends, 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). In another story from the same text, a fisherman whose boat is destroyed in a storm is rescued from certain drowning because of his faith in My!ken. <Source: The Nihon Ry!iki of the Monk Ky!kai , translated and edited by Kyoko Motomochi Nakamura, published 1973; see pages 85, 149, 229, and 266-267>

My!ken Iconography & Rituals

Although considered a Bosatsu (Skt. = Bodhisattva), My!ken is more properly classified as a Deva (Jp. = TEN). My!ken's attributes are not firmly set, and thus s/he comes in various manifestations in Japan. For instance, the deity generally appears with two or four arms, and is shown seated on a cloud or standing atop a dragon, or a turtle, or a composite beast known as the Kida (half turtle, half dragon-snake). One of the most popular modern forms of My!ken shows the deity standing atop a turtle (the ancient Chinese guardian of the north). Another popular modern depiction shows the deity as a warrior, holding a sword above his head and wearing helmet and armor. In statuary and mandala artwork, My!ken imagery is commonly combined with representations of the Seven Stars of the Big Dipper. My!ken's female form, in some locations, is considered a manifestation of Kannon Bosatsu and is venerated as the goddess of the home and prayed to for domestic harmony, as at K!d! Temple (the 19th temple along the 33-Site Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage). Other heterodox views identify My!ken with Shaka Nyorai (the Historical Buddha) or with Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha). The oldest extant representations of My!ken (see photos below) depict the deity with right foot raised and resting behind the opposite knee, while the hands hold the sun and moon discs (befitting icons symbolizing My!ken's role as the supreme celestial deity, one "lighting" the way along the path of enlightenment). Such iconography is considered unique to Japan, for no trace of it can be found on the Asian continent. The sun disc sometimes contains a three-legged black crow, while the moon disc sometimes contains a hare and/or toad. My!ken also commonly carries a brush and tablet (on which s/he records our good/bad deeds). S/he is sometimes surrounded by a male Yasha-like creature holding an inkstone and/or a female attendant holding a tablet and brush, or depicted as a royal dressed in courtly gowns. Some of the most important rituals devoted to My!ken, the Pole Star, and the Big Dipper include: My!ken-h! , the Rite to My!ken. Held in modern times during adverse weather or when natural disasters threaten society. Hokuto-h! , the Rite of the Big Dipper. Came to prominence during the Insei period 1086-1192. Held in modern times during adverse weather or when natural disasters threaten society. Sonj!-!-h! , the Rite of Sonj!-! (aka My!ken). Sonj!-! can be translated as "Monarch of the Venerable Star." Performed to prevent calamities; one of four

4-armed My!ken atop dragon, holding sun & moon discs, and brush & tablet (on which s/he records our good/bad deeds). Handscroll, color on paper. Kamakura Era (13th-14th century). Important Cultural Property ICP. Treasure of Sh!my!-ji Temple , Kanagawa, but now housed by the Kanagawa Prefectural Kanazawa Bunko Museum . Image based on drawing in the Zuz!sh! (Zuzosho) , or the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Icons, a text edited by Ej" (1060-1145 AD). Photo courtesy Taoism Art Catalog.

Star." Performed to prevent calamities; one of four imperial rites traditionally performed at Miidera Temple

(aka Onj!ji Temple ) in Shiga Prefecture. Came to prominence during the Insei period 1086-1192 AD. In this rite, Sonj!-! is considered to represent the entire cosmos (not just the Pole Star); the rite, accordingly, combines a multitude of celestial deities into a single visualization of Sonj!-!. <Source: Gaynor Sekimori, pp. 234-236, The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. > Yamamiya-sai , or Mountain Shrine festival/rite, held from the late 9th century until the late Edo period by members of the Watarai clan of Ise priests at Okazaki Shrine (located on the grounds of the J!my!ji

Temple , a Watarai clan temple midway between the Inner and Outer Shrines at Ise). Devoted to the worship of the Pole Star, the sun and the moon, and eventually to the protective deities of the 12 months of the year and the 28 Lunar Mansions. <Source: Mark Teeuwen, p. 91-92, The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. > My!ken's Ennichi (Holy Day). The 15th day of each month is considered My!ken's Ennichi , literally "related day" or "day of connection." This is translated as holy day, one with special significance to a particular Buddha or Bodhisattva. Saying prayers to the deity on this day is believed to bring greater merits and results than on regular days. Since the full moon appears on the 15th each month in the old lunar calendar, it is an appropriate ENNICHI for My!ken. Says the Digitial Dictionary of Buddhism (login = guest): "The deity is understood to be in special charge of mundane affairs on that day, e.g. the 5th is Miroku, 15th Amida, 25th Monju, 30th Shaka. According to popular belief, religious services held on such a day will have particular merit." <end quote> See Ennichi list for 30 Deities (Sanj"n Nichi Hibutsu ; Japanese only).

Hokushin (Polar Star Deity), aka My!ken Bosatsu , dressed as warrior, holding sword. L = 113.8 cm, W = 40.4 cm, Color on Silk, 14th Century, T!ji Temple , Kyoto. A similar portrayal of My!ken appears in scroll 29 of the R!ya Daisuihen , compiled by Ch! Teishi (1543-1603). <Photo: Treasures of T!ji Temple. 1995 Exhibit Catalog. Asahi Shimbun.>

My!ken and Ame no Minakanushi

My!ken worship suffered when the Meiji government forcibly separated Shint! and Buddhism (Shinbutsu Bunri ) in the late 19th century. Between 1868-1875, when the government actively outlawed all fusion of the Kami-Buddha, the Buddhist deity My!ken was commonly replaced with the Shint! kami Ame no Minakanushi no Mikoto (a primordial ancestral kami), who then served as the chief kami of the seven major stars of the constellation of the Big Dipper (Ursa Major). Ame no Minakanushi is generally translated as "Lord of the Center of the Sky." This kami appears in the Kojiki (Record of Ancient Matters, 712 AD, Japan's oldest record of its creation myths), and from 12th-century texts onward, the deity is generally interpreted as equivalent to the Pole Star. (Also spelled: , Amenominakanushi, Amanominakanushi, Amaterasu). Sources: Kokugakuin University ; and Mark Teeuwen, p. 92 > Says the Encyclopedia of Shinto : "Japanese scholar Hirata Atsutane, in particular, propounded a theology wherein Ame no Minakanushi no Mikoto was chief kami of the seven major stars of the constellation Ursa Major. As a result of this influence, Ame no Minakanushi was made a central deity at the Daiky!in Temple in the early Meiji period, and he was worshiped within sectarian Shint! (Ky!ha Shint!) as well. During the process of separation of Shint! and Buddhist objects of worship, the deity My!ken (the north star) was changed to Ame no Minakanushi at many shrines. <end quote> Many Suitengu

Standing image of My!ken Bosatsu. By Immy! . Wood. H = 155.1 cm. Kamakura Era (dated 1301). ICP. Photo courtesy Taoism Art Catalog.

Minakanushi at many shrines. <end quote> Many Suitengu Shrines throughout modern Japan still revere Amenominakanushi -- which can be roughly translated as "Chief of All Celestial Deities," thus retaining the nuance of My!ken's exalted position among all stars. For an excellent review of My!ken in modern times, see story by scholar Gaynor Sekimori entitled "Star Rituals and Nikk! Shugend!," which appeared in The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. , pages 217-250, edited by Lucia Dolce; a special double issue of Culture and Cosmos, ISSN 1368-6534. Elsewhere, says scholar Mark Teeuwen, p. 92 : "At Ise shrines, from the 12th century onwards, 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)." <end quote Teeuwen>

Sonsh!-! (aka My!ken). Skt. = Sudrsti. Monarch of the Venerable Star. Holds sun & moon disks, stands atop dragon. Hanging Scroll, Color on Silk. H = 99.8 cm, W = 57.9 cm. Muromachi Era, 15th Century. Mimuroto-ji Temple , Kyoto Photo courtesy Taoism Art Catalog. Worshipped to avoid calamities of fire and to heal eye diseases.

My!ken Lore from Other Sources

Says JAANUS : "My!ken is an amalgamation of the Shint! deity My!ken Shin and the deity of the Northern Polar Star (Little Dipper). Originally a deification of the Polestar (Hokushin ) but later also regarded as a deification of the Big Dipper (Hokuto ) because of confusion between the two. Although popularly regarded as a Bodhisattva , and usually referred to as My!ken Bosatsu , properly speaking s/he belongs to the category of divinities called TEN (Skt. = Deva), and in the Jimon branch of the Tendai sect she is equated with Kichij!ten . She is invoked in particular for apotropaic purposes and also for the healing of eye diseases. In Japan she appears to have been widely revered as early as the Heian period, and in medieval times she came to be worshipped especially among powerful provincial clans as a tutelary deity of the warrior class, evolving into the partially Shint!ized deity My!kenjin . At the same time she was also adopted by the Nichiren sect and remains the object of a popular cult today. Artistic representations of My!ken exhibit considerable diversity. There is a set of 26 paintings, all different, at Daigoji Temple in Kyoto, 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!kenjin has a halo showing the seven stars of the Big Dipper and holds a sword in one hand. There is also a mandala (mandara) devoted to her, the My!ken Mandala ." <end JAANUS quote> Says the Digital Dictionary of Buddhism Sign in with user name = guest. My!ken Bosatsu. "The beautiful sight, i.e. Ursa Major, or the bodhisattva who rules there. He symbolizes the Great Bear, and is venerated in esoteric Buddhism and the Nichiren Sect. This bodhisattva is believed to protect the country, ward off disease and increase one's life-span. In Japan he is popularly believed to cure eye diseases. Also called , though some say "#kyamuni, others Avalokit$vara, others Bhai%ajya, others the Seven Buddhas. His image is that of a youth in golden armor. Transliterated as . The Iwanami dictionary has a detailed entry. T 1205.21.36b5; sources cmuller, Nakamura, Soothill, JEBD]." End DDB quote. Says site contributor Gabi Greve : "My!ken is a purely Japanese Bosatsu, presumably an amalgamation of the Shinto deity Myooken Shin and the deity of the Northern Polar Star (Dipper). He (sometimes seen as a SHE) has been the protector deity of the clan of the CHIBA since the Heian period. This clan later became followers of Nichiren, therefore Myooken is often venerated in temples of this sect. Myooken protects from fires, brings luck and prosperity and heals illness of the eyes. In Edo he was very popular, since there were many fires in the city. So festivals of Myooken were visted by many townspeople and always full of merrymaking. He also takes care of the behaviour of human beings and writes your good and bad deeds in his notebook. He is also venerated as a special protector deity of the land and country of Japan. He stands on a tortoise with a thick

Modern My!ken Statue. Holding sword over head, which is a common portrayal of the deity among samurai. Photo: This J-store.

the land and country of Japan. He stands on a tortoise with a thick tail or rides a green dragon. He is accompanied by a vassal who Hokuto-ten (Big Dipper My!ken) carries pen and paper (remember, he registers all our deeds). His hair is long and hanging down, like the fashions popular in the Heian in the guise of a Bodhisattva. Drawing from the 17th-century Butsuz!-zu-i period. He carries a sword and a wish-fulfilling jewel. Sometimes he is depicted with four arms, two of them carrying the sun and the moon. In Japan, most of his statues are made of stone." <end Gabi Greve quote>

Modern My!ken Statue. Atop turtle, holding sword. Seven Big Dipper Stars in Halo. Photo: This J-store.

Modern My!ken Statue. Atop turtle, holding sword. Seven Big Dipper Stars in Halo. Photo: This J-store.

My!ken Photos with Reference Notes

ABOVE TWO DRAWINGS: The Sonj!-! (or Sonsh!-!) Mandala . The Sonj!-! Mandala was used in rituals to secure the health and longevity of the emperor. The above drawing depicts Sonj!-! (aka

used in rituals to secure the health and longevity of the emperor. The above drawing depicts Sonj!-! (aka My!ken) with four arms, standing atop a dragon. Various stars and constellations appear in three concentric circles around the deity, "which seem to reflect the pattern of the night sky in the northern hemisphere." <source Tsuda Tetsuei pp. 145-194>. The deity holds the sun disk (with a three-legged black crow inside), moon disk (with a rabbit and frog inside), a trident (Gekihoko ), and a staff (Shakuj! ) with metal rings. The deity stands on one leg, with the right foot raised behind the opposite knee, forming the shape of the numeral four -- this pose is said to symbolize the ritual steps (uho ) used in Onmy!d! (Yin-Yang practices) or the magical step called the Pace of Yu (henbai uho ) used in contemporary Shugend! practices to create sacred boundaries. A crocodile-like creature (makatsu ) appears atop the deity's head, although in most other portrayals the animal atop My!ken's head is commonly a deer, said to be My!ken's messenger or manifestation. Various other creatures appear, including an elephant, a white fox, and numerous three-legged black crows. The crow is associated with the sun and with Amaterasu "mikami (Japan's supreme sun goddess). The hare is associated with the moon, as is the frog because of its bumpy skin. See below for details on this iconography. The vases that appear in the drawing contain the elixir of immortality. The Sonj!-! Mandala is attributed to the Jimon branch of the Tendai sect based at Miidera Temple (aka Onj!ji Temple ) in Shiga Prefecture. The oldest extant example of this mandala is a monochrome drawing that appears in the Besson Zakki , a Buddhist text compiled by Shingon monk Shinkaku (1116-1180) and translated as "Miscellaneous Record of Classified Sacred Images." Also called the Gojukkansh! . The above two drawings come from the Besson Zakki. <Sources: Tsuda Tetsuei pp. 145-194, and Gaynor Sekimori pp. 217-250 in The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. >

Sonj!-! (or Sonsh!-!) Mandala Four-armed Sonj!-! (aka My!ken) standing atop a dragon, Kamakura period, 13th century. Treasure of Miidera (Shiga). H = 68 cm, W = 42 cm. ICP. Color on silk. Horned deer atop head. Holding sun & moon discs; 3-legged crow inside sun disc; hare and frog inside moon disc. The outer rim of eight sun & moon discs depict a deer , leopard , white fox , tiger , and elephant , as well as more three-legged crows and hare-frog pairs surrounding a vase containing the elixir of immortality. LEFT PHOTO: Photo from Miidera Temple's J-site. RIGHT (REPRODUCTION): Photo from this J-site.

ABOVE TWO PAINTINGS: The 13th-century Sonj!-! (or Sonsh!-!) Mandala at Miidera Temple (aka Onj!ji Temple ) in Shiga Prefecture is in bad repair, but the origin of its iconography has "exercised scholarly minds for centuries," according to scholar Gaynor Sekimori in "Star Rituals and Nikk! Shugend!" (pp. 217-250, The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice ). Says Sekimori: "The 12th-century text Kakuzensh! suggests an iconographic relationship with the water star (Mercury) in the mandala devoted to Butsugen , and associations have also been made with two other deities of the north, Kichij!ten and Bishamonten. The Miidera painting portrays Sonj!-! as a four-armed Bodhisattva standing on a green dragon with one foot raised behind the opposite knee. It is closely related to one of the three standard My!ken iconographical depictions, but differs in that the second set of hands holds, not pen and paper, but a shakuj! (staff) and trident. It has been suggested that the leg position represents the magical step callled the Pace of Yu (henbai uho ) used in contemporary Shugend! to create sacred boundaries. The dragon represents the Pole Star and the Dipper constellation. The image stands on the moon, associated with night and so the Pole Star. 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. Both are originally Chinese representations associated with the sun and the moon. 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. The provenance of the animals on the outer

frog is associated with the moon because of its bumpy skin. The provenance of the animals on the outer rim has been described as an 'eternal riddle' but there are indications to suggest their reference. First, a horned deer appears both on the head of Sonj!-! and above the upper sun and moon. One explanation is that it is there to suggest a connection with Kasuga Shrine; certainly the Fujiwara, whose clan shrine Kasuga was a major patron of Miidera, and the Sonj!-! rite, was performed to protect Fujiwara empresses in childbirth. Another explanation is that the deer was associated with Chinese immortals. Yet another connection is offered in tales collected in the Nihon Ry!iki (see stories above). The Miidera painting includes a tiger and a panther (or leopard), and shares [with the Besson Zakki image above] an elephant and a white fox. The panther (Kisuihy!), tiger (Bikak!), and fox (Shingekk!) are associated with three constellations that protect the northeast (Kishuku, Bishuku, and Shinshuku), and so may be regarded as guardians of the direction from which the most baleful influences come. [Editor's Note: The northest is known as the 'Demon Gate' in Japan (Kimon ), a Japanese term stemming from Chinese geomancy (Ch: feng shui ). In Chinese thought, the northeast quarter is considered particularly inauspicious. It is the place where "demons gather and enter." This Chinese belief was imported by the Japanese, who believe the fox is particularly adept at protecting the NE direction from evil influences.] The elephant may represent Fugen Bodhisattva, a deity of long life, and indeed the mantra of Enmei Fugen (Long Life Fugen) is recited during the Sonj!-! ritual. The concentric circles are stylizations of what appears in the Kakuzensh! drawing and in standard star mandala as the Nine Luminaries, the Twelve (12) Celestial Mansions, and the Twenty-Eight (28) Constellations." <end quote Gaynor Sekimori>

My!ken, Deity of the Pole Star and Little / Big Dipper

ABOVE TWO DRAWINGS: Modern reproductions of the Sonj!-! Mandala at Miidera Temple. See prior photo of original. Shows three-legged crow inside sun disk & rabbit-frog inside moon disk. Horned deer appears on the head of Sonj!-! and above the upper sun and moon. Photos this J-Site.

Rokuji My!-!

Literally "Six-Syllable Luminescent King." The below two drawings share certain iconographical

Literally "Six-Syllable Luminescent King." 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). In all of them, we see the four-armed one-headed central deity holding the sun disk and moon disk, with right foot raised behind the opposite knee. However, in the below drawings, the deity is portrayed atop a lotus, whereas the earlier images show her atop a dragon. The drawings also portray the deity holding different objects. Rokuji My!-! appears in the Rokuji Jinju!ky! sutra, where the deity is described as the central icon (honzon ) in esoteric rituals (known as the Ch!buku Shinp! or Ch!buku-h! ) to ward off evil spirits, enemies, and malicious influences.
Click to Enlarge Click to Enlarge

Rokuji My!-! Drawing from 12th-century Japanese text Besson Zakki , translated as Miscellaneous Record of Classified Sacred Images

Rokuji My!-! Literally "Six-Syllable Luminescent King." 17th-century drawing from the Butsuz!-zu-i

Notes on the Rokuji Mandala . Also called the Rokujiky! (Rokujikyo Mandala), literally Six Letter Mandala or Six-Syllable Incantation. Centered on Shaka Nyorai (the Historical Buddha) holding a gold wheel (h!rin ). See Hokuto Mandala (Big Dipper Mandala) for more about this form of Shaka. The central deity is surrounded by Six Kannon (Roku Kannon ), and the group of seven appear within a moon disc. At the top of the mandala are two flying celestials (hiten ); at the bottom are images of Fud! My!-! and Daiitoku My!-! , and positioned between them are six figures venerating a smaller moon disc. The deity is also said to be the composite reward body ( ) of the Roku Kannon who protect people in each of the six realms of karmic rebirth. 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. The Six Kannon appear in the most common form of the Rokujiky! Mandala, which from the Heian period was the focus of the Rokujiky!h! , a Shingon ritual used particularly for sickness and childbirth. The six forms of Kannon often appear along with their corresponding Sanskrit bonjimon . <end JAANUS quote>

ABOVE TWO DRAWINGS: My!ken images from pre-Meiji Japan. LEFT: Four-armed My!ken holding brush and tablet (in which s/he records all one's deeds), a sword, and the wheel of law. Six or seven snakes appear atop head. RIGHT: Holds brush & tablet, sun & moon disks; stands atop dragon & five-colored cloud (Goshiki Un ), right foot raised & resting behind opposite knee; a semi-divine male Yasha attendant stands atop a black cloud holding an inkstone. Sources: Butsuz! Zukan , V. One, pp. 139-140. This iconographical document was compiled by Buddhist monk Gonda Raifu (18471934); available for online purchase. Also see ISBN4-88405-335-4 C0095.

Nose My!ken Daibosatsu (dated 1824) Tanba Rissh!zan My!h!ji Temple , , , Hy!go Prefecture Nose was the name of a feudal lord, and the Nose domain is near Osaka. Mt. My!ken in Nose (near Osaka) is a famous and sacred site of the Nichiren sect. My!ken of Nose protects the nation, eradicates evil, vanquishes enemies in the battlefield, protects horses, and brings happiness and longevity to the people. The temple is affiliated with the Nichiren Sect. It holds an annual My!ken festival in late July. Photo this J-Site.

Chiba Moon-Star Crest (The Emblem of My!ken) From History of Reiki, Vol. 2, Miscellaneous Research by James Deacon, 2002, Page 10 http://www.scribd.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. During the Heian period, My!ken was adopted as the tutelary deity of the Chiba clan, and along with the bosatsu, they adopted the 'moon-star' crest as their mon. It seems this adoption was in recognition that My!ken had afforded protection in battle to one of the Chiba-clan ancestors."

Chiba Mon Moon-Star Crest

My!ken Statue Japanese Art Auctions, Trocadero Welcome to Another Century

My!ken Memorial Stone Votive Stone Plaque (Kamakura) with seven stars of Big Dipper

Also known as the "Tutelary God of Houses" in Japan's Onmy!d! (Yin-Yang) circles. Identified with My!ken in Japan. The esoteric ritual known as Anchinh! (abbreviated as Kokuchin ) was performed in the imperial palace to secure the safety of the state. The principal deity was Fudo (Acala), and the ritual itself was one of the four great rituals of Tendai (Sanmon Shika Daih! ). A similar ritual performed at an ordinary house was called Kachin or Chintaku (aimed at protecting the household from calamities); hence Chintaku Reifujin's moniker as Tutelary God of Houses. (1) Chintaku Reifu Shin. By Shimanuki Bangetsu . Sheet. Ink on Paper. Edo Era, 19th Century. University Art Museum, Kyoto City University of Arts. Below the deity are two attendants and Genbu (a snake embracing a tortoise), the ancient Chinese guardian of the north. H = 60.4 cm, W = 28.8 cm. (2) Chintaku Reifujin. Hanging Scroll. Print on Paper. Edo Era, 19th Century. H = 111.5 cm, W = 55.5 cm. (3) Chintaku Reifujin. Hanging Scroll. Print on Paper. Edo Era, 19th Century. H = 111.5 cm, W = 55.5 cm. Photos scanned from Taoism Art Catalog. Exhibit catalog published in 2009 by the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art together with the Yomiuri Shimbun, Osaka.

Chintaku Reifujin

Chintaku Reifujin . Identified with My!ken in Japan. Also known as the "Tutelary God of Houses" in Japan's Onmy!d! (Yin-Yang) circles. (4) Chintaku Reifujin. Hanging Scroll. Print on Paper. Edo Era, dated 1768. H = 61.3 cm, W = 39.0 cm. (5) Chintaku Reifujin. Hanging Scroll. Print on Paper. Edo Era, dated 1768. H = 61.3 cm, W = 39.0 cm. (6) Chintaku Reifujin. Hanging Scroll. Print on Paper. Edo Era, dated 1768. H = 61.3 cm, W = 39.0 cm. Photos scanned from Taoism Art Catalog. Exhibit catalog published in 2009 by the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art together with the Yomiuri Shimbun, Osaka.

Hokushin My!ken Chintaku Reifujin . Identified with My!ken in Japan. Also known as the "Tutelary God of Houses" in Japan's Onmy!d! (Yin-Yang) circles. (7) Hokushin My!ken Chintaku Reifujin. Hanging Scroll. Print on Paper. Edo Era, dated 1812. H = 88.1 cm, W = 25.4 cm. (8) Hokushin My!ken Chintaku Reifujin. Hanging Scroll. Print on Paper. Edo Era, dated 1812. H = 88.1 cm, W = 25.4 cm. Photos scanned from Taoism Art Catalog. Exhibit catalog published in 2009 by the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art together with the Yomiuri Shimbun, Osaka.

My!ken, Sun Disk, Moon Disk

My!ken is also associated with a red sun disk (Nichirin ) and

white moon disk (Gachirin ), which are befitting icons symbolizing My!ken's role as the supreme celestial deity, one "lighting" the way along the path of enlightenment. In the photo at right, My!ken's right hand holds the sun disk with a black threelegged crow drawn inside, while the left hand holds the moon disk with a rabbit (or hare & frog) drawn inside. Even today, people purchase talismans known as the Nissei Manishu (sun disk with 3-legged black crow) or the Gessei Manishu (moon disk with a hare pounding rice). . The former is purchased by those with eye disease or poor eye sight, and making proper pleas and prayers to the icon is said to cure one's eye problems. Let us recall that My!ken literally means "wonderous sight." Making proper pleas and prayers to the moon disc is said to reduce fever and cool the body.

Three Legged Crow (Yatagarasu )

Like My!ken, a black crow-like bird with three legs is also closely associated with Nikk! Bosatsu (Sunlight Bodhisattva), with Emperor Jimmu (Japan's legendary first emperor), and with N!jo Taishi (the founder of Haguro Shugend!).

My!ken atop dragon holding sun & moon disks. Photo from Besson Zakki , a Buddhist text compiled by Shingon monk Shinkaku (1116-1180) and translated as "Miscellaneous Record of Classified Sacred Images." Also called the Gojukkansh! .

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. First, a black three-legged crow known in China as S"nzw# (lit. = three-legged bird) appears in

Chinese artwork dated to the Y$ngsho period (5000 BC to 3000 BC). In Chinese mythology and ancient philosophical texts, this bird is intimately related to the sun. According to the Huinnz% (2nd century BC Chinese text), this bird has three legs because three is the emblem of Yang -- and the supreme essence of Yang is the sun. Second, in Japan's own creation myths, including the Nihon Shoki (submitted to the Japanese imperial court in 720 AD), a giant crow called Yata-garasu (eight-span crow) appeared to Japan's first legendary emperor, Jimmu , who had landed on the shores of Japan but gotten lost. The crow was sent by Amaterasu &mikami (Japan's supreme sun goddess) to lead Jimmu to Yamato (the heartland of Japan). Says site contributor Cate Kodo Juno , an ordained Buddhist priest of Japan's Shingon sect: "Since the crow is also associated with My!ken and the Pole Star, could it be that it was the Pole Star that guided Jimmu?"

Nissei Manishu Three-legged crow inside sun disc.

Third, 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 , who is said to have come to Haguro early in the seventh century. He was given the title of Sh!ken Daibosatsu in the 19th century. Legend says he was the third son of the late sixth-century emperor Sushun (reigned 587 to 592), and the cousin of Sh!toku Taishi (574-622), Japan's first great patron of Buddhism. According to legend, prince N!jo renounced his title and position, took the name K!kai , and became a wandering hermit of the mountains. N!jo is depicted as a strange being, dark of skin and with exaggerated facial features, his mouth extending from ear to ear. It was to a place called Akoya, in a narrow valley full of thick growth, with a waterfall at one end, that N!jo was guided by a mystical three-legged crow, and it was here that he first did ascetic training. 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." 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, as often happens in hagiographies, in order to provide added legitimacy and authority to N!jo's legend." <end quote> Some final words on the above Shugend! legend. Today people often equate the three-legged crow with the three sacred mountains of Dewa Sanzan, but the basis of the legend clearly originated in earlier Chinese mythology. My!ken (the deification of the Pole Star and Big Dipper constellation) is a major star deity at sacred Mt. Haguro, one said to possess the power to cure eye diseases.

Emperor Jimmu and black crow. Artwork by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892).

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. Like My!ken, Gakk! Bosatsu (Moonlight Bodhisattva) is closely associated with the Gachirin (moon disk), which depicts a rabbit pounding mochi (glutinous rice). People suffering high temperatures or fevers can purchase such talismans or icons (called Gessei Manishu ), which are said to reduce fever and cool the body. Why the rabbit? In the West, when people look at the moon, they see a man in it. The Chinese see a rabbit, pounding magical herbs to make the elixir of eternal life. The Japanese, with their love of obscure wordplay, envision the same rabbit pounding rice to make mochi. The name of the full moon is mochizuki, while mochitsuki means "making mochi." Making proper pleas and prayers to the moon disk is said to reduce fever and cool the body. The Rabbit is also associated with the Zodiac calendar. For more on rabbit lore in China and Japan, see Gabi Greve's site. The frog (toad) is associated with the moon because of its bumpy skin. This creature, called Xi"m in Chinese and Gama in Japanese, has long been associated with the moon in Chinese mythology, where it is described as large, pure white, and three legged -- with the fungus of longevity, regarded as the "branch of the soul," growing from its head. According to many legends, it is immortal, and endowed with magical powers and sometimes even sinister qualities. For more on frog (toad) lore in China and Japan, see Animal Motifs in Asian Art: An Illustrated Guide to Their Meanings and Aesthetics by Katherine M. Ball, first published 1927, pages 173 to 181. Above clipart of the Nissei Manishu and Gessei Manishu from (Big Catalog of Japan's

Gessei Manishu Moon disk with rabbit pounding rice to make mochi.

Moon disk with rabbit & frog pounding magical herbs to make the elixir of eternal life. Commonly shown in My!ken's left hand. This icon appears in a 13th-century My!ken Mandala, a treasure of Miidera Temple (aka Onj!ji Temple ) in Shiga Pref. (see full image below).

Buddhist Statues), published in Japan by (Shikisha), 2006. ISBN4-88405-335-4 C0095.

Turtle, Tortoise, and Snake

Turtles and Snakes . In artwork, My!ken is frequently shown standing atop or accompanied by a turtle, or a composite beast known as the Kida (half turtle, half dragon-snake). See the numerous photos that appear herein. One of the most popular modern forms of My!ken shows the deity standing atop a turtle (the ancient Chinese guardian of the north). The turtle is one of Four Legendary Creatures (shishin ) guarding the four directions -- it is the emblem of the north, as is My!ken. The tortoise is the hero of many old legends. It helped the first Chinese emperor to tame the Yellow River, and in return was rewarded with a life span of ten thousand years. Thus the tortoise became associated with longevity, as are rituals involving My!ken (see Sonj!-! Mandala below). In both Chinese and Japanese artwork, a common symbol for longevity is a snake embracing a tortoise (Genbu ; see photo at right), for Chinese mythology says their union engendered the universe (there were no male tortoises -- as the ancients believed --- so the female had to mate with a snake). In China, the tortoise-snake pairing dates back to the third century AD. Grave steles, memorial stones, and reliquaries placed atop tortoise effigies can still be found in China and Japan, and were reserved for only the highest ranking members of the imperial family or ruling class. In Japan, extant artwork linking the turtle with the seven stars of the Big Dipper can be traced back to the early 8th century. In the two images in the right column, we see a sketch of the legendary tortoise that appeared before Japan's emperor in 715 AD, with the seven stars of the Big Dipper engraved on its shell. Below that we see the actual piece in the collection of the Sh!s!-in in Nara. Made of Serpentine rock

Turtle Entwined with Snake Modern reproduction of painting found at the 7th-8th century Takamatsu Zuka Kofun , or tombs located about 12 miles south of Nara in the Kinki District.

Sketch of turtle with seven stars of Big Dipper on its back. Source: The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice (p. 210), story by Meri Arichi. ISSN 1368-6534.

(Jyamongan ). Photo sources narahaku.go.jp and ameblo.jp . The appearance of this terrapin is recorded in the Shoku Nihongi (compiled around +797) in book six. Enter search term "turtle" at this site to read story.

Eagle (Washi or Otori)

During Japan's Edo period (1603 to 1868), a curious form of My!ken appeared depicting the deity atop an eagle (see photo at right). This deity is said to be a manifestation of Hagunsh! , the 7th star of the Big Dipper, and one identified with the Zodiac sign of the horse. As mentioned earlier, My!ken is worshipped in some quarters as the guardian of horses (and hence, the patron of warriors and farmers, who relied upon horses in both warfare and agriculture). This version of My!ken is associated with the Edo-era temple-shrine multiplex of J"zaisan Ch!kokuji Temple and Washi (Eagle) Shrine in Tokyo's Asakusa district. The multiplex was divided during the forced separation of the Buddha-Kami in the early Meiji period, with My!ken (atop an eagle) moving to Ch!kokuji Temple, while Washi (Eagle) Jinja became dedicated to Amenohiwashi and Yamato-Takeru-noMikoto (Brave Warrior of Yamato) -- the latter is associated with a large white bird. Washi Jinja is today popularly known as "Otori Sama" and is considered the pre-eminent Tori (bird) shrine in Japan. This former temple-shrine multiplex is

Actual piece in collection of the Sh!s!-in in Nara. H = 3.5 cm, L = 15 cm

credited with creating the still-popular Tori no Ichi (Rooster Day Festival), held annually in November on the Zodiac day of the rooster, during which people come to pray for health, good fortune, and business success. Colorful and decorative kumade (rakes) are sold by venders in the shrine and temple compounds -- kumade are especially prized by merchants, who believe the objects have the power to rake in good fortune. Says the temple's official E-site:

the power to rake in good fortune. Says the temple's official E-site: "The temple of Ch!koku-ji was established in 1630, in the early years of the Edo period, and it was dedicated to Nichiren, the Buddhist priest who founded the sect that is named after him. Enshrined in the temple is a statue of Washi My!ken Bodhisattva (see above image), who holds a sword in the right hand and has an aureole incorporating the seven stars of the Great Bear constellation. Familiarly known as Otori-sama among the people of Edo (now Tokyo), the statue stands on the back of an eagle (washi), hence its name, and it is reputed to bring good fortune and prosperity to all people who worship it." The temple's crests are called Moon Crests or Big Dipper Crests.
Washi My!ken (lit. = Eagle My!ken) Washi My!ken Daibosatsu Otori Shrine (Asakusa, 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. The Zuz!sh! (Zuzosho) , or the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Icons, was edited by Ej" (1060-1145). Says the Japan Society: "The earliest surviving images that can be definitely identified as My!ken Bosatsu appear in the Zuz!sh!, the ten volume esoteric iconographic manual compiled c.1135. The section entitled "My!ken Bosatsu" begins with a text that describes the characteristics of the deity, Sanskrit mantra (magic spells), and ritual procedures. In art, this deity's head is often surrounded by the nimbus of the seven celestial sages (of the Big Dipper). 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, longevity, and health. MY#KEN is a warrior and is traditionally appealed to on the eve of battle." <end quote by Japan Society, "Myoken Bosatsu: The Adoption & Adaptation of the Pole Star Deity by Samurai and Townspeople in Pre-modern Japan." > The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice. Edited by Lucia Dolce. Special double issue of Culture and Cosmos. ISSN 1368-6534. See especially story by scholar Gaynor Sekimori entitled "Star Rituals and Nikk! Shugend!," pages 217250. Mt. Haguro . The three deities of sacred Mt. Haguro (and the Haguro Shugendo sect) are (1) My!ken Bosatsu, the deification of the Pole Star and the Dipper constellation; (2) Gundari My!-!, who represents the six marker stars of the south; and (3) the central divinity Kannon Bosatsu. My!ken is mentioned in the Ry!jin Hish! (Treasured Selections of Superb Songs), which was compiled personally by Emperor Goshirakawa (1127-93) and released in 1179. It is the largest extant collection of Japanese songs that flourished between the mid-Heian to the early Kamakura period. My!ken was worshiped at that time mainly for the power to cure eye diseases. The Ry!jin Hish! (Songs to Make the Dust Dance). Translation by Yung-Hee Kim. The Ry!jin Hish!. Translation by Arthur Waley.
My!ken Mandala . My!ken in center, surrounded by the seven stars of the big dipper.

Taosim Art . Exhibit catalog published in 2009 by the Osaka Municipal Museum of Art together with the Yomiuri Shimbun, Osaka. Fabulous exhibit featuring approx. 420 Taoist-related art works. The exhibit was held in first in Tokyo, then Osaka and Nagasaki, between late 2009 and early 2010. A brilliant catalog. Various photos above and below (see captions) were scanned from this catalog. My"ken-zan Kokuseki-ji Temple . Founded in

the seven stars of the big dipper. Outer court shows the 12 zodiacal mansions (J!ni Ky! ). Chart this J-site

+729 by Monk Gy"ki as Tokozan Yakushi-ji Temple

of the Tendai sect and renamed My"kenzan Kokuseki-ji Temple in +849. The temple is famous for its Kokuseki-ji Sominsai Fire Festival, held on the evening of January 7th until the next morning. My"kensai .

The My"ken Festival at Yatsushiro Shrine (aka

My"keng! in Yatsushiro City (Kumamoto

Prefecture ) is held annually for two days on Nov. 2223. This lively festival involves a parade featuring a six-meter-long turtle with a two-meter-long snake head that is carried around town. This half-snake half-turtle is called a Kida . See numerous photos of the festival at this J-site. Like My"ken, the deity Marishiten is sometimes represented as a female with eight arms, two of which are holding aloft the sun disc and moon disc, and worshipped as a guardian of the nation and warriors. Marishiten is addressed as queen of heaven, or as (literally "mother of the Southern Measure #$%&' or Sagittar(), and associated thus with the constellation of Sagittarius and the seven stars of the Little Bear (Little Dipper), which perhaps explains why s/he (Marishiten) drives a chariot drawn by seven pigs. See Marishiten page for details.

Online Resources about My"ken

My"ken: J-Site with Numerous Photos. Recommended. ensenji.or.jp/img/pdf/09.pdf My"ken: J-List of Sanctuaries in Japan. Recommended. ensenji.or.jp/img/pdf/06.pdf Notebook - Other Japanese Pages of Interest My"ken Research d1.dion.ne.jp/~s_minaga/myoken48.htm Nikk"-Shugend".com (Takino-o Gongen and My"j"ten ) Modern My"ken Mandala Postcard hachisu-net.com/shop/s-myouken.html Modern My"ken Mandala Postcard hachisu-net.com/shop/spos-myouken.html My"ken Photos adachi-ke.hp.infoseek.co.jp/myoken.htm (standing on turtle) My"ken Photo, atop turtle, two attendants kokusekiji.e-tera.jp/b-myouken.html My"ken Painting, Three Panels burnet.at.webry.info/201001/article_2.html My"ken with Jewel: burnet.at.webry.info/201001/article_2.html My"ky"ji Temple , Oakayama City , Okayama Pref. My"ken Photo rakushisha.ocnk.net/product/321 My"ken Star Shrine eonet.ne.jp/~nunose/009kosya22.htm

Online resources about Chintaku Reifujin

Japanese book about this deity Chintaku Reifujin; Kann" Himitsu Sh!h"sh!, by Kenjun Yamagishi. worldcat.org/title/chintaku-reifujin-kanno-himitsu-shuhoshu/oclc/028352195 ; Major sect that worships this deity in Osaka today. Sagara (Shakara, Shakatsura-ryuo, 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, like Ugajin and Juzenji, he was also seen by some as a ruler of "fundamental destiny" (benming). Indeed, in another of his main

seen by some as a ruler of "fundamental destiny" (benming). Indeed, in another of his main cultic centers, the Sh!rinzan Daruma-dera, he is openly associated with Chintaku Reifujin, in other words, My!ken, the god of the Northern Asterism. See darumasan.blogspot.com/2009/07/red-and-smallpox-essay.html

Nine Luminaries, Seven Celestial Bodies, Five Planets

Japanese = Kuy! (Kuyo) or Kushitsu . Sanskrit = Nava-Graha. Chinese = Ji" Yo. The nine celestial luminaries are the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rago, and Keito. Each is associated with a specific deity, day of the week, and compass direction. Among the nine, seven are part of another grouping known as the Seven Celestial Bodies (Jp. Shichiy! , Skt. Sapta Grah#$), which excludes Rago and Keito. The five planets Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn are associated with one of the five elements (see chart below). The nine luminaries appear often in Japan's Star Mandala and in the Taiz!kai or Womb World Mandala. The Japanese and Sanskrit names of the nine, plus their associations, are listed below.
Celestial Body Sun Moon Mars Mercury Jupiter Day & Attributes Sunday Northeast Monday Northwest Tuesday, South Fire (Hi ) Wednesday, North Water (Mizu ) Thursday, East Wood (Ki ) Friday, West Metal (Kane ) Saturday, Center Earth (Tsuchi ) Lunar Ascending Southeast; Spirit Causing Eclipses Lunar Desending Southwes a comet Japanese Nichiy! Nichiy!sh! Gatsuy! Gatsuy!sh! Kay! Kay!sh! Suiy! Suiy!sh! Mokuy! Mokuy!sh! Kiny! Kiny!sh! Doy! Doy!sh! Ragoy! Ragosei Ragosh! Keitoy! Keitosei Keitosh! Sanskrit & Chinese %ditya C = S!ma C = A&g#raka C = Budha (not Buddha) C = Other Notes associated with Kannon associated with one of five elements associated with one of five elements associated with one of five elements associated with Seishi or Amida associated with one of five elements associated with one of five elements

B'haspati C = Sukra C = (anai)cara C = R#hu C= Ketu C =

Venus

Saturn

Rago

Ketu

Photos from this J-site Deities of the Planets & Celestial Bodies (Jp. = Kuy! ) Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rago, and Keito NOTE OF CONFUSION. In Japan, there is another grouping of seven stars known as the Seven Stars of the Big Dipper (Jp. Shichiy!sh! ). It appears that the seven stars of the Big Dipper were conflagrated / confused with the Nine Luminaries (Kuy! ) presented in the above table.

Seven Big Dipper Stars & Deities Jp. = Hokuto Shichisei

Origin = China. 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. The Japanese imported the practice of star worship from China during the Nara Period (710-794 AD), and held rites to the Big Dipper to avoid catastrophe and ensure longevity and health. These beliefs and practices are still alive in Japan's modern-day esoteric sects, and incorporate elements of China's Yin-Yang philosophies. Japanese Names for Big Dipper & Seven Stars Hokuto Big Dipper) Hokuto Shichisei (Seven Stars of Big Dipper) Nanatsuboshi (Seven Stars of Big Dipper) Shichiy!boshi (Seven Stars of the Big Dipper) Shichiy!sei (Seven Stars of the Big Dipper) Hishakuboshi (Seven Stars of the Big Dipper) Hotoku no Shichi Bosatsu (Seven Bosatsu of the Big Dipper)

Big Dipper Cult and Zodiac Belief

In Japan's Heian period (794-1185), Zodiac belief was combined with worship of the seven stars of the Big Dipper, which were said to control one's human destiny. In the Sutra of the Big Dipper for Prolonging Life (Hokuto Shichisei Enmei-Ky! ), each of the seven stars was combined with the zodiac signs, thereby yielding one's personal star based on one's birth star (Honmy!sh! ):

Seven deities of the Big Dipper. Photo Source: T-21, no. 1306, pp. 425-426

Seven Big-Dipper Stars, Zodiac Associations, Buddhist Counterparts, & Other Attributes
Japanese Name 1. Donr!sh! or Tonr!sh! 2. Komonsh! 3. Rokuzonsh! 4. Mongokush! 5. Rench!sh! 6. Mugokush! Bukyokush! 7. Hagunsh! Sino-Japanese Zodiac Animal Rat Ox, Pig Tiger, Dog Rabbit, Rooster Dragon, Monkey Snake, Sheep Horse Buddhist Counterpart Nichirin Bosatsu Gachirin Bosatsu Z!ch! Bosatsu Jiz! Bosatsu Kong!shu (Fugen) Bosatsu K!my!sh! Notes Yang, Yin, Yin,

Ekosh! Bosatsu

The Seven Big Dipper Stars rule sequentially over the hours in a 24-hour day in a set order, which is Saturday, Thursday, Tuesday, Sunday, Friday, Wednesday, Monday. Saturday begins the sequence from midnight to 1am, followed by Thursday from 1am to 2am, followed by Tuesday from 2am to 3am, etc. HOWEVER, the day-deity association is unclear to me. Sources: Butsuz!-zu-i as well as the Hokuto Shichisei Enmei-Ky! , T-21, no. 1306, pp. 425-426 . . See expanded listing of the seven stars / nine luminaries by clicking here.

GLOSSARY OF JAPANESE TERMS & CELESTIAL CONCEPTS

Hokuto Mandala (Big Dipper Mandala). Hoshi Mandala . A generic type of Mandala dedicated to the celestial entities, and including the Hokuto Mandala (Big Dipper Mandala).

J"niky" (or) J"nig" . The twelve houses of the Zodiac, also known as the zodiacal mansions; they are typically depicted in the Gekong!buin section of the Matrix Mandara (aka Taiz!kai Mandala or Womb World Mandala ). Visit this J-site for photos of the 12 zodiac houses found in the Star Mandala of Japan's Shingon sect. Kuy! or Kushitsu . The nine planets, which are the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rago (Skt = Rahu), and Keito (Skt = Ketu). See above for details. My!ken (Myoken) . Deification of the Polestar and/or Big Dipper. See above. Nitten (sun) and Gatten (moon). Nikk! Bosatsu might also be included in this category. and Gakk! Bosatsu

Nij"hasshuku . The topic of this page. The twenty-eight lunar mansions (Skt. = naksatras), also sometimes called the 28 moon lodges or 28 stations of the moon. The 28 points in the moon's

also sometimes called the 28 moon lodges or 28 stations of the moon. The 28 points in the moon's monthly orbit were deified. In Japan, they are commonly depicted in the Gekong!buin

section of the Matrix Mandara (aka Taiz!kai Mandala, Womb World Mandala ) of the Shingon and Tendai sects. They appear in the form of celestial maidens (seven in each quarter) and also in the Hokuto Mandara (see above). Seishuku (or) Shoshuku . The Japanese term for "constellation." It refers to the celestial bodies, stars, constellations, planets, moons, and other heavenly objects that were incorporated into Buddhism and deified. Seishukubu . Literally "sidereal division." A term used sometimes to refer collectively to the celestial bodies that have been deified in the esoteric Buddhist pantheon. Shichiy! . The seven days of the weeks, all deified. Visit this J-site found in the Star Mandala of Japan's Shingon sect. for photos of the seven

Shukuy! . Another term for "constellation." See entry for Seishuku above. Y!shuku . Celestial bodies, celestial orbs, including the sun, moon, planets, and the 28 constellations.

Why the Number 28? This is not easily explained, nor is the answer definitive. The number 28 represents many different important concepts in both ancient cosmology and early Buddhism. In Chinese astrology, for example, there were four celestial "palaces" in the sky (representing the four cardinal directions), each corresponding to seven stations (or lodges) of the moon's path overhead. This yielded a total of twentyeight combinations. This scheme was apparently incorporated in early Buddhism, for Buddhism has 28 Heavens (Skt. = Devalokas), which include six of the desire world, eighteen of the form world, and four of the formless heavens. The list goes on and on. There are the 28 Patriarchs of Mahayana Buddhism, the 28 Yaksas (protective spirits), the 28 Legions protecting Kannon Bodhisattva, etc. It is thus very likely that the 28 Benefits of venerating Jiz! stem from the same influence.

POLE STAR RESEARCH

DRACO LORE. Dragon Star Constellation (courtesy Khandro.net )

Around 1,800 BC, the celestial indicator (the "pole star") was not the modern-day North Star (Polaris), but rather Thuban, a star in the constellation known as Draco or Dragon. Draco is the 8th largest of the conventional constellations curving from the "pointers" of the Dipper (Ursa Minor) to brilliant Vega. To the observer of today, there is no bright star in the configuration. Yet, the passages in the great pyramid at Gizeh (Egypt) once acted as channels for the light of the star that is called Thuban. It is now known that those pyramids were oriented to Orion and, at the time of the building of the Sphinx, to Leo. It has been demonstrated that Angkor Wat, the great Khmer (Cambodian) Buddhist shrine, was built in alignment with this celestial formation. However, in 1,150 CE the constellation of the Dragon was upside down over the site's medieval buildings, but impressively, in the era of 10,500 BC, traces of the very earliest structures there mirrored the Dragon constellation exactly. 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. Naturally, this displacement had to be justified, and so the serpentine heavenly Mother, Tiamat of the early Mesopotamians, is considered by devotees of the newer deity, Marduk, as an evil draconian monster. The flying dragon whose abode is the heavens is universally recognized as a symbol of the Chinese culture and its people. Chinese refer to themselves as "Descendents of the Dragon." It is believed that on rare occasions dragons have the power to transform themselves into handsome humans who, male or female, can mate with people. For example, former Japanese Emperor Hirohito claimed descent from Princess Fruitful Jewel, daughter of a sea Dragon King. It is this belief that lies at the root of the dragon, which is often used in Asia as the crest or emblem of a royal house.

TENDAI SECT & BIG DIPPER

There are a total of 21 shrines at the syncretic Tendai shrine-temple multiplex located at Mt. Hiei (Shiga Prefecture, near Kyoto)., known as the "21 Sann! Group" (Sann! Nij"issha ). These 21 shrines are split into three groups of seven -- the three groupings represent the three main Buddha/Kami of the Tendai complex, who are Shaka, Yakushi, and Amida. They in turn represent the three most important Shinto KAMI (deities) of the Hie shrine complex. These three Kami are Omiya (), Ninomiya (), and Sh!shinshi (). The so-called Upper Seven Sann! Shrines (Sann! Kami no Shichisha ) form the core of the Sann! complex. They are associated with Shaka, are known as the Big Hiei group, and are associated with the seven stars of the Big Dipper.

RESOURCES:
Shukuy!-ky! . Also read as Sukuy!ky!. T 1299.21.392c6. One of the main sources for the 28 Constellations. Tang-era Chinese translation from Sanskrit. This is the abbreviated name of the sutra. Its long name is , (Monjushiri Bosatsu kyuu shosen shosetsu kikky! jijitsu zen-aku shukuy!k-y!). The Chinese translation is attributed to Amoghavajra (Jp. = Fuk" Kong!), a prolific 8th-century translator who was one of the most politically powerful Buddhist monks in Chinese history. The text was reportedly brought to Japan by K"kai in the 9th century. LINK: www.l.utokyo.ac.jp/~sat/japan/downpage/v21.html Shukuy!giki Tang-era Chinese translation from Sanskrit Shat!kanky! or Admonition of the Prince and the 28 Lunar Lodgings, T 1301.21.410-420 Mat!ga ky! (S"tra of the M#ta$g% Girl, T 1300.21.399-410) Mad!jo ky! (S"tra of the M#ta$g% Girl, T 551.14.895) Shichiy! j!sai ketsu Expelling the Seven Planets' Fated Calamities, T 1308.21.426 The Worship of Stars in Japanese Religious Practice . Edited by Lucia Dolce. Special double issue of Culture and Cosmos. ISSN 1368-6534. Useful publication with many illustrations. Digital Dictionary of Buddhism (C. 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 , the "Collected Illustrations of Buddhist Images." Published in 1690 (Genroku

Butsuz!-zu-i , the "Collected Illustrations of Buddhist Images." Published in 1690 (Genroku 3). One of Japan's first major studies of Buddhist iconography, with drawings by Tosa Hidenobu and text by Ito Takemi . Hundreds of pages and drawings, with deities classified into approximately 80 (eighty) categories. Modern-day reprints are avaiable for purchase at most large Japanese book stores, or click here to purchase online. Mandara Zuten (Japanese Edition). The Mandala Dictionary. 422 pages. First published in 1993. Publisher = Daihorinkaku . Language = Japanese. ISBN-10: 480461102-9. Click here to purchase book from Amazon. Digital Dictionary of Buddhism (sign in with user name "guest") Wikipedia (J-Site)

OTHERS REFERENCES
aisf.or.jp/~jaanus/deta/b/butchou.htm sukuyou.com/sindan/tc_3.html hm.tyg.jp/~acmuller/canon/1048_.html hm.tyg.jp/~acmuller/canon/1299_.html#p0392c06 buddhism-dict.net/cgi-bin/xpr-ddb.pl?4e.xml+id('b4e8c-5341-516b-5bbf') reihokan.or.jp/syuzohin/hotoke/mandara/28syuku.html chinapage.com/astronomy/constellation28.html en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shijin l.u-tokyo.ac.jp/~sat/ mandalar.com/TattooBurst/index.html buddhism-dict.net/cgi-bin/xpr-ddb.pl?4e.xml+id('b4e8c-5341-516b-5bbf') sakai.zaq.ne.jp/piicats/setsubunn.htm kanji.zinbun.kyoto-u.ac.jp/~wittern/can/can4/t21/t21n1304.htm mandalar.com/TattooBurst/index.html kyohaku.go.jp/eng/dictio/data/kaiga/mandara.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.

Tortoise (Black Warrior) = North, Winter, Black, Water White Tiger (Kirin) = West, Fall, White, Metal Red Bird (Phoenix) = South, Summer, Red, Fire Dragon = East, Spring, Blue/Green, Wood

SHITENNO Lit. = Four Heavenly Kings (Buddhist) Four guardians of the four compass directions. Associated closely with China's Five Element Theory.

Four Shitenno, H!ry"ji Temple , Nara Mid-7th Century. Oldest extant set of the four. K!mokuten , Z!ch!ten , Tamonten , Jikokuten Painted Wood, Each Statue Approx. 133.5 cm in Height Photos from Comprehensive Dictionary of Japan's Nat'l Treasures ( . ISBN 4-06-187822-0.

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