Today I climbed two mountains, visited two temples and saw hundreds of Buddhist statues. The last temple, of course, was situated on the highest mountain. It was hot. So, so hot. But I prevailed. I made it to the top only to discover the Extra Special Kannon statue was closed up for the day. There was nothing to see.
So I headed back down. Happily, on the way I discovered something that not only made the trip worthwhile, but also reminded me why I think Buddhism is a hoot.
First, I'm going to make you look at some of the photos of statues I took.
This was tiny and unique. Homemade, obviously. And a wee bit creepy.
This one was just cute and had a very non-Japanese feel to it.
They had two of these wooden Kannon statues that were absolutely stunning. Life size and I don't know how old. I couldn't believe they weren't behind climate controlled glass. Poor little bug-eaten things.
Found a head.
Rawr!
Now for the highlight of my day. I came across this little assortment.
Let's see, we have a jizo statue, a tanuki and a hotei. A motley crew to say the least.
But wait.
Down there...
...under the jizo, there's an offering of a cup of water and...
...two candle holders.
But...
If we look a little closer...
Something is stuffed into the candle holders.
Hello? Is that ... and ...
Hello!
I just adore the playfulness of Buddhism.
I just adore the playfulness of Buddhism.
4 comments:
Too cute!
Nice! And what was the takehome assignment?
Aaahhhhh....
You just didn't use your GAIJIN POWER.
Back a long time ago, my buddy and i convinced this priest to open up the box inside a temple so we could see what was inside.
It turned out to be nothing special, just another Kanon (not old or beautiful). Don't believe every temple-tender you meet.
imomomo
I can't remember the name of the temple in Kamakura with all of the dolls in it, but it used to amaze me. Creepy at night, but in a sweet sort of way.
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