Buddhist art from the Tokoin Temple
Yakushi Nyorai heals any kind of illness with the small medicine pot he holds in his left palms. The statue was originally enshrined in Sumiyoshi Shrine in Hakata. But was transferred to Tokoin Temple during the Meiji period (1868-1912).
His look , downcast eyes and composed build, is characteristic of Heian period (794~1195). On the other hand , characteristic of Buddhist statues from the mid-Heian period are also recognizable, such as a square face, relatively deep head and the sharp lines carved for the folds in the robe and in other parts. He might have been made based on authentic ancient Buddhist sculptures.
0. Seated Yakushi-nyorai (Bhaisajyaguru)
1. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Rat direction.
2. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Ox direction.
3. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Tiger direction.
4. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Hare direction.
5. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Dragon direction.
6. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Serpent direction.
7. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Horse direction.
8. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Ram direction.
9.Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Monkey direction.
10. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Bird direction.
11. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Dog direction.
12. Twelve generals attending to Yakushi-nyorai
(Bhaisajyaguru) :
Protector of the Boar direction.
Bhaisajyaguru, also known as the Medicine Buddha, is a revered figure in Mahayana Buddhism. He is believed to be the Buddha of healing and medicine and is often invoked for physical and mental healing.
In Sanskrit, his name is "Bhaisajyaguru Vaiduryaprabha," which translates to "Medicine Master and Lapis Lazuli Light." This highlights his association with healing and the lapis lazuli gemstone, which symbolizes purity and healing properties.
Bhaisajyaguru is typically depicted in blue color, representing the color of lapis lazuli. In iconography, he is often shown holding a medicine bowl in one hand and a myrobalan plant (a symbol of medicine) in the other.
Devotees recite his mantra or pray to him to seek relief from ailments and to promote overall well-being. The belief is that his blessings can cure illnesses, both physical and spiritual, and bring peace and health to those who call upon him.
Tokoin Temple, also known as "Tokoin," is a prominent Buddhist temple in Japan. It is particularly associated with the worship of Bhaisajyaguru, the Medicine Buddha. This temple is renowned for its focus on healing and well-being, attracting many visitors who seek blessings for health and recovery from illnesses.
This collection contains Buddhist statues and treasures, including 25 statues that are nationally Designed Important Cultural Prosperities, donated by Yakuo Mitsuji Tokoin Temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism , which was one of the family temples of the kuroda clan, lords of the former Fukuoka Domain, located in Yoshizuka , Hakata-ku, Fukuoka city.
Period/Century : Heian period 12th century
Size : H. 71
Materials: wood
Collection: Buddhist art from Tokoin Temple
FUKUOKA ART MUSEUM
2024.06.19