As siblings, the bodhisattvas of the sun and moon are almost identical and difficult to tell apart in their representation. 

The primary identification is in the color of hand held disks representing their radiance. The sun is typically shown holding a red disk and the moon a white disk. Here, the sun is shown with a white disk and the moon a black disk. The white disk represents the source of compassion and liberation from suffering. The black disk represents the future liberation of all beings from suffering.

Bishamonten is a celestial being, guardian of the North, and general of the four heavenly kings who protect the cardinal directions. He is associated with the winter season, the color black, and is a god of treasure and good luck.

Usually shown in armor holding a trident or sword, the primary identification for Bishamonten is the treasure stupa. This contains the treasury of the Dharma, sacred relics, and limitless wealth. Usually held easily in one hand, he is shown here holding an enormous treasure stupa in representation of the Lotus Sutra; the sutra of equanimity, gentle patience, compassion, and an encouragement to help others in their liberation from suffering.

Bishamonten is pacifying a yaksa demon who will light the road for those on the path of the Dharma.

Benzaiten is a water deity and patron of artists, music, and poetry. She is associated with serpents and the sacred wish-granting jewel that can bring wealth and the relief of suffering through the elimination of desires.

She is sometimes depicted playing a type of lute or holding a white lotus flower; a symbol of mental clarity and pacification of greed, anger, and ignorance.

Benzaiten can be seen employing a hand gesture called Varada mudra that is used for identification and to invoke the deity's manifestation. The Varada mudra represents compassion, giving, and welcoming.

Sometimes shown sitting on a lotus flower, she is here depicted on a lotus leaf as one who is in the realm of Bodhisattva; one who delays their own ultimate liberation to help other suffering beings.

Shakyamuni Buddha stands on a lotus flower, the symbol of the Dharma, with hands in the Vitarka mudra. This mudra is made by combining the postures of the Abhaya and Varada mudras together symbolizing the preaching of the Dharma and leading sentient beings to bodhisattva hood.

The Abhaya mudra of the right hand is a gesture of reassurance, peace, and courage.

The Varada mudra of the left hand is a gesture of compassion, giving, and welcoming.

Fugen Bodhisattva Practice Animation, 2023
Block print, ink on paper, Adobe After Effects

 31 SPIRITS OF THE GREAT EARTH
The Spirits of the Great Earth are derived from a group of 30 Japanese kami, or spirit guardians, called Sanjubanin, who protect the Lotus Sutra. Identifying the kami, the corresponding Buddha or bodhisattva, and their relationship with the Lotus Sutra reveals a common focus of devotion that can be revered around the world.

They are represented as male or female spirits, with a graphic representation of their virtue at their center. The spirits are the earth itself and not a specific person, so graphic language is used instead of a specific likeness as in traditional iconography.

Many deities and Bodhisattvas have multiple names as they appear throughout the sutras and stories of Buddhism. Some are known to have both male and female forms, overlapping protective qualities, and embody a variety of virtues for inspiration and protection. The gender of the 31 Spirits of the Great Earth is determined by the Butsuzō-zu-i, a Japanese iconography source created in the Edo period (1603-1868).

Some Vocabulary found in the descriptions
A short list of definitions relating to the iconography descriptions.

Lotus Sutra: Buddhist Mahayana sutra, or discourse, as told by Shakyamuni Buddha

Sanjubanjin: Group of 30 spirit guardians who protect the Lotus Sutra identified by the Butsuzō-zu-i

Kami: Divine being honored in Shintoism

Odaimoku: Mantra Namu Myoho Renge Kyo that translates to I devote myself to the Sutra of the Lotus Flower of the Wonderful Dharma

Daimyojin: Suffix meaning great illuminating deity

Bodhisattva: One who compassionately delays their liberation to help others suffering

Tenjin: Deity of the heavens

Gongen: Manifestation of the Buddha

Butsu: Representation of the Buddha

Nyorai: Another name for a Buddha

Tathagata: Another name for a Buddha

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 1: Cosmos

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I am immovable in my conviction for liberation.

Kami name:
Atsuta Daimyojin
Atsuta is revered by the historical Japanese imperial court. She is associated with the sun goddess Amaterasu, an ancestor of Japan’s emperors.

Buddhist name:
Dainichi Buddha
Atsuta is the manifestation of Dainichi, representing the cosmos and the zenith (center). Dainichi is often portrayed with the hand position of the Six Elements mudra, symbolizing the unity of earth, water, fire, air, and space with the mind. When corresponding to Shakyamuni Buddha, Dainichi positions his hands in the Dharmacakra mudra of the Dharma teaching.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Fudo Myo-o is a messenger of Dainichi and represents the practice taught in the Lotus Sutra in striving for ultimate liberation from suffering by helping others. Fudo Myo-o is immovable in this conviction, as seen in chapter 16 of the Lotus Sutra: The Duration of the Life of the Tathagata. The Buddha reveals their eternal nature of compassion throughout the cosmos in this chapter.

Keywords:
Unity
Conviction
Liberation

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 2: Tree

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, my thoughts and actions increase peace and stability.

Kami name:
Suwa Daimyojin
Suwa has the virtue of rain, wind, and water. His shrine is dedicated to the cedar tree. Suwa is considered a Japanese clan ancestor and political guardian deity. Prayers are offered to him for peace and stability in Japan.

Buddhist name:
Fugen Bodhisattva
Fugen embodies the height of compassion, meditation, and practice in the Dharma. He emphasizes behavior is equally important to study and reflection. He is often depicted with hands in the Gassho mudra of greeting and reverence.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Fugen Bodhisattva, also known as Samantabhadra and Universal-Sage Bodhisattva, appears in Chapter 28 of the Lotus Sutra, The Encouragement of Universal-Sage Bodhisattva. Universal-Sage Bodhisattva vows to protect anyone who practices the Lotus Sutra’s teachings and the Bodhisattva’s way.

Keywords:
Compassion
Effort
Connection

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 3: Water

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I perceive the fluid nature of all phenomena.

Kami name:
Hirota Daimyojin
In 1870s ancient Japan, Hirota helped the state defeat rebels and thieves.

Buddhist name:
Seishi Bodhisattva
Seishi embodies strength and is sometimes depicted in Buddhist sculpture with a small water jar in her crown representing wisdom. She is often described with hands in the Gassho mudra of greeting and reverence.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Seishi, known as Great-Power-Obtainer, appears in Chapter 1 of the Lotus Sutra: Introductory. She is in attendance at the Mt. Sacred Eagle assembly to hear the Lotus Sutra teachings given by Shakyamuni Buddha. She appears in Chapter 20 of the Lotus Sutra, Never-Despising Bodhisattva. This chapter represents the heart of the Lotus Sutra in that all living beings, no matter the circumstances, are to be respected and revered.

Keywords:
Wisdom
Equanimity
Endurance 

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 4: Sea

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I will safely reach the other shore to liberation.

Kami name:
Kehi Daimyojin
Kehi oversees safety at sea, fishing, and farming families and is associated with controlling food. Seven deities, including Japan’s 14th and 15th emperors, are collectively known as Kehi Daimyojin.

Buddhist name:
Dainichi Buddha
Dainichi is manifested as Myoken Bodhisattva, the deity of the North Star, providing guidance and safety to those traveling by sea. Myoken can be recognized holding a book or a sword while standing on a turtle and holding a sword over his head in other depictions.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Myoken supported Nichiren Shonin in his propagation of the Lotus Sutra and is identified with Shakyamuni Buddha, who taught the sutra.

Keywords:
Safety
Guidance
Community

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 5: Ground

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I remain anchored, free of suffering born of craving.

Kami name:
Keta Daimyojin
Keta is a protection deity for the rulers and citizens of Japan. He is revered for his blessings for providing safety by sea and land and blessings for governing earth and agriculture.

Buddhist name:
Sho Kannon
Sho Kannon protects those reborn in the Hungry Ghost realm and those reborn into the six lower realms from karmic actions. She can be recognized holding a lotus bud, symbolizing liberation in this present life, or holding a water vase representing spiritual abundance.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Sho Kannon, the Sacred Form of Kannon, is Avalokitesvara, the goddess of compassion. To save all living beings with suitable expedient means, she is World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva, appearing in Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, The Universal Gate of World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva.

Keywords:
Relief
Liberation
Adaptability

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 6: Thunder

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I am at peace among unsteady influences.

Kami name:
Kashima Daimyojin
Kashima brings ease to the land during earthquakes and is a deity in command of thunder.

Buddhist name:
Juichimen Kannon
Juichimen is translated as having eleven heads. Ten heads represent the ten lower realms of existence on the bodhisattva path, and the eleventh head represents Buddha nature.

Juichimen listens for the sounds of thunderous and silent suffering worldwide and responds with expedience to aid in distress. In common depictions, the right hand is shown in the Abhaya mudra, symbolizing peace and fearlessness. The left hand is shown holding a water vase carrying a lotus flower.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Kannon manifests as Avalokitesvara, the goddess of compassion, known as Kanzeon, Kuan Yin, and Tara. She is World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva, appearing in Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, The Universal Gate of World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva. World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva presents themselves as either male or female depending on the needs of the person who receives their help.

Keywords:
Stability
Listening
Giving

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 7: Weather

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I give rise to change by creating an environment without suffering.

Kami name:
Kitano Tenjin
Kitano is the manifestation of the ancient Japanese scholar, poet, and statesman Sugawara no Michizane.

Kitano presides over the weather, especially thunder, and is linked to agriculture. Offering reverence to Kitano will bring an abundant harvest.

Buddhist name:
Juichimen Kannon
Juichimen, the esoteric form of Kannon, transforms into any of her thirty-three forms to save those suffering in the realm of fighting demons.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Kannon represents the goal of the bodhisattva, aiding in others' final liberation from suffering and complete equanimity. She is known as World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva, appearing in Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, The Universal Gate of World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva. World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva transforms into any form most suitable to teach the Dharma to save suffering beings out of her unconditional and boundless compassion.

Keywords:
Change
Peace
Harvest

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 8: River

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I am a gentle observer of the constant flow of thoughts and feelings.

Kami name:
Ebumi Daimyojin,
The shrine of Ebumi was first venerated as a location for the first sight of morning light in a region surrounded by mountains. Among the properties of the earth, water is associated with Ebumi.

Buddhist name:
Benzaiten
Benzaiten is a river goddess with a strong relationship to rain, water, and ponds. She inspires and supports artists and is prayed to for agricultural protection and favorable circumstances, ensuring a bountiful harvest. In some schools of Buddhism, Benzaiten is a female manifestation of Dainichi Buddha. She can be seen with the Varada mudra in one hand and a white lotus flower in the other.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Benzaiten, known as Myo-on, is Wonderful-Voice Bodhisattva in Chapter 24 of the Lotus Sutra, Wonderful-Voice Bodhisattva, who appreciates our world of endurance. The dragon is an avatar of Benzaiten. Dragons appear throughout the Lotus Sutra, including in the story of the Dragon Princess, who achieves liberation as a young girl and a non-human being in Chapter 12, Devadatta.

Keywords:
Cultivation
Endurance
Transformation

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 9: Rain

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I offer kindness and compassion equally.

Kami name:
Kifune Daimyojin
Kifune is the deity presiding over Mt. Kifune outside of Kyoto, Japan. The manifestation of the entire mountain is a dragon spirit who governs rain and is prayed to in times of emergency, drought, and flooding.

Buddhist name:
Fudo Myo-o
Fudo Myo-o is usually shown surrounded by fire representing purification. Association with water is linked to the sea where Fudo Myo-o stands on a rock, unmovable in the determination to eliminate suffering.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
The strength of practice embodied in Fudo Myo-o is represented in Chapter 16 of the Lotus Sutra, The Duration of the Life of the Tathagata. Here is the practitioner’s devotion to the Dharma, no matter the sacrifice.

Keywords:
Practice
Devotion
Sacrifice

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 10: Sun 

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I am a light in the darkness of confusion and distress.

Kami name:
Amaterasu Omikami
Amaterasu is the sun goddess, Queen of the kami, bringing light and life to the earth and our solar system. Japan’s imperial family is said to be a direct descendant of her lineage.

Buddhist name:
Dainichi Buddha
Dainichi is the Great Illuminating One of the cosmos.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Dainichi is known as Vairocana. Vairocanarasmipramandita is Light-Adornment in Chapter 27 of the Lotus Sutra, King Wonderful-Adornment. In this world, the two sons of King Wonderful-Adornment obtained clear and perfect practices of a bodhisattva. Vairocana rasmipratimanditadhvajaraja is known as Light-Adornment-Appearance.

Keywords:
Clarity
Perfection
Unity

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 11: Pond 

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I protect all beings within my reach.

Kami name:
Hachiman Daimyojin
Hachiman is considered an ancestor of the 3rd-4th century emperor of Japan. He is the guardian of warriors, archery, writing, and culture.

At a pond at the Usa Jingu Hachiman shrine in the city of Usa in Oita Prefecture, Japan, a young oracle defines Hachiman by appearing at the pond and declaring himself the protector of all sentient beings.

Buddhist name:
Amida Buddha
Amida is known as the Buddha of Boundless Light and Life. Amida’s pure land is joined to this present life on earth as defined in the Lotus Sutra.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
It is stated in Chapter 16 of the Lotus Sutra, The Duration of the Life of the Tathagata, “this pure land of mine is indestructible.”

Keywords:
Protection
Equality
Presence

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 12: Lightning 

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I am free from inner and outer dangers.

Kami name:
Kamo Daimyojin
Kamo Daimyojin, a messenger of Amaterasu, guarded Japan’s first emperor in 660 BCE throughout his dangerous travels. He is a guardian of the electrical industry, demon gates, and warding off evil.

Buddhist name:
Sho Kannon
The sacred form of Kannon, is Avalokitesvara, the goddess of compassion who protects those born in the six lower realms of rebirth; heaven, humans, fighting demons, animals, hungry ghosts, and hell. She can be identified as holding a water vase or a lotus bud.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Kannon is World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva in Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, The Universal Gate of World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva.

Keywords:
Freedom
Support
Transformation

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 13: Sky 

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I provide a thriving physical and mental environment.

Kami name:
Matsuno Daimyojin
Matsuno Daimyojin is related to maritime safety, construction, commerce, traffic, and longevity virtues.

Buddhist name:
Kokuzo Bodhisattva
Bodhisattva of wisdom and memory, Kokuzo is the patron of artists and technicians. Kokuzo is Sky Repository Bodhisattva who spreads wisdom and compassion throughout the universe. Sometimes identified as employing the Fear Not Mudra of assurance and safety and the Wish-Granting Mudra of welcoming and charity.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
In The Five Great Akasagarbhas, Kokuzo is manifested as Five Wisdom Buddhas, including Ratnasambhava as Ratnaprabha.

Kokuzo Bodhisattva appears in the Lotus Sutra as Ratnaprabha Bodhisattva, who is Gakko, Moon-Light Bodhisattva in Chapter 1 of the Lotus Sutra, Introductory. At the beginning of this chapter, of the “82,000” beings gathered to hear the Lotus Sutra, Bodhisattvas who have never given up seeking liberation are listed, among them, Moon-Light Bodhisattva.

Ratnaprabha presides over the South and is Yellow in color.

Keywords:
Wisdom
Meditation
Transformation

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 14: Plant 

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I heal illnesses born from illusion.

Kami name:
Ohara Daimyojin
Ohara Daimyojin was crucial in protecting Japan against calamity and played an active role in nation-building.

Buddhist name:
Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha, Medicine-King Bodhisattva)
He is commonly depicted with his left hand holding a jar or bowl filled with the medicinal myrobalan plant or a wish-fulfilling gem. The right hand is often shown forming the fear not mudra, or having a myrobalan flower between the thumb and forefinger.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Yakushi appears throughout the Lotus Sutra and is highlighted in Chapter 23, The Previous Life of Medicine-King Bodhisattva. In this chapter, he emphasizes whole-hearted devotion to the compassionate principles of the Lotus sutra as the best medicine to cure the world of illnesses. Medicine-King also offers a sacred protective spell in Chapter 26, Dharanis.

Keywords:
Healing
Protection
Care

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 15: Flower 

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I bloom in stagnation and adversity.

Kami name:
Kasuga Daimyojin
Kasuga Daimyojin played an active role in nation-building and is a protector of the people and land of Japan.

Buddhist name:
Shakyamuni Buddha
The human being named Shakyamuni Buddha lived for 80 years. His historical lifespan is one manifestation of the Eternal Buddha, the foundation of all Buddhas. In the Buddhist view, a lotus flower symbolizes awakening amidst adversity. The muddy water in which the lotus grows best provides an environment reflecting our difficulties.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Shakyamuni Buddha is the primary teacher of the Lotus Sutra and facilitates others to teach within the sutra.

Keywords:
Eternity
Endurance
Compassion

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 16: Season 

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I transform conflict into peace.

Kami name:
Hirano Daimyojin
Hirano Daimyojin influenced the transformation of the turbulent Japanese government in the 6th century.

Buddhist name:
Sho Kannon
Kannon appears to free all sentient beings from the cyclical nature of suffering. Sho Kannon is Kannon’s root, a sacred aspect from which all other manifestations spring. She can be identified as holding a water vase or a lotus bud.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Sho Kannon is World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva in Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, The Universal Gate of World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva.

Keywords:
Root
Truth
Return

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 17: Mineral

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I strengthen belonging and nurturing.

Kami name:
O-Hiei Gongen
O-Hiei Gongen is recognized by the seventh-century Japanese emperor as a national deity who helps govern the nation and is responsible for forming and for a bountiful agricultural harvest.

Buddhist name:
Shakyamuni Buddha
The Buddha taught for 50 years according to the capacity, place, and time so that each being could awaken to their liberation through practice and experience. Belonging to the Buddhist sangha supports properly functioning mind, body, and spirit.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Chapter 2 of the Lotus Sutra, Expeidiants, teaches that various approaches equally lead all beings to their liberation. Chapter 5, The Similie of Herbs, further illustrates teaching equality regardless of spiritual skill, social status, income, gender, race, education, or ethnicity.

Keywords:
Nutrition
Belonging
Connection

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 18: Mountain

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I establish healthy boundaries and recognize when to move past them.

Kami name:
Ko-Hiei Gongen
Ko-Hiei is a protective mountain deity associated with the five grains of wheat, barley, oats, rye, spelt, rice, water, and the brewing of sake. These attributes are divine virtues of the father deity.

Buddhist name:
Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha, Bhaisajyaraja, Medicine-King Bodhisattva).
Further known as Medicine Master of Lapis Lazuli Radiance, the deep blue stone lapis is mined from mountains around the world, including Afghanistan, Myanmar, and the United States.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Medicine-King Bodhisattva appears in the opening pages of Chapter 1 of the Lotus Sutra, Introductory. In anticipation of the Buddha speaking, countless deities from every realm across the universe gather on Mt. Sacred Eagal, setting aside all differences in the peaceful unity of the Buddha’s teachings.

Keywords:
Boundaries
Unity
Resolve

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 19: Shore

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I eliminate the borders of preference.

Kami name:
Shoshinji Gongen
A male manifestation of Tagori Hime, the kami of agriculture and weaving who lends to safety at sea and bountiful catches.

Buddhist name:
Amida Buddha
Amida Buddha vowed to create a god-like paradise without distinction of gender in which a person could enter by chanting his prayer with sincerity. In this tradition, one can attain final liberation from suffering by being reborn in Amida’s Pure Land. Final liberation is known as the other shore.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Amida Buddha is called Amitayus in Chapter 7 of the Lotus Sutra, The Parable of a Magic City. “Countless, limitless, inconceivable” years ago, Amitayus was one of sixteen princes of Great-Universal-Wisdom-Excellence Buddha who led people to their liberation by teaching the Lotus Sutra as bodhisattvas.

Keywords:
Transformation
Time
Effort

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 20: Moon

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I radiate lovingkindness.

Kami name:
Kyakujin Gongen
One of 7 monkey avatars protecting Mt. Hiei and patron of a strong marriage and childbirth. Kyakujin practices non-violence toward insects in upholding the principles of Buddhism.

Buddhist name:
Gakko Bodhisattva (Corresponding deity from Sanjūnichi Hibutsu, Butsuzo-zui, 1783)
Bodhisattva of Moonlight, Gakko is sister to Nikko, Bodhisattva of Sunlight. They commonly appear as attendants to Buddhas, often Medicine Buddha. Gakko holds a white lunar disk traditionally positioned to the right of Nikko and the central Buddha they are attending.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Gakko is referred to in Chapter 23 of the Lotus Sutra, The Previous Life of Medicine-King Bodhisattva; “Just as the Moon God is brighter than the stars, this Sutra of the Lotus Flower of the Wonderful Dharma gives us more light than any of the other sutras numbering thousands of billions.”

Keywords:
Radiance
Non-violence
Family

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 21: Hill

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I rise over hardship with creativity and fearlessness.

Kami name:
Hachioji Gongen
Descending the sacred mountain Hachioji in ancient times, Hachioji Gongen presides over a small hill near the mountain base and is associated with hard work and courage.

Buddhist name:
Senju Kannon
With 1000 arms and eyes, this esoteric form of Kannon is all-knowing with god-like power. In representation, it is common for Senju Kannon to appear with 42 arms. Each hand can be seen holding different items such as a bell, whisk, or sutra, or may sometimes be positioned in the Dhyana mudra representing meditation or the Anjali mudra, expressing offering and veneration.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
As World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva in Chapter 1 of the Lotus Sutra, Introductory, Kannon is listed among those present on Mt. Sacred Eagle to hear the teaching of the Lotus Sutra from Shakyamuni Buddha.

Keywords:
Determination
Love
Amplify

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 22: Clay

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I provide an environment necessary for healthy relationships.

Kami name:
Inari Daimyojin
Inari Daimyojin is the kami for rice, agriculture, a bountiful harvest, and a prosperous business. The fox is Inari’s messenger who can shape-shift and repel evil influences.

Buddhist name:
Nyoirin Kannon
Seen with six arms for each of the six lower realms of rebirth, Hell, Hungry Ghosts, Animals, Fighting Demons, Humans, and Heaven. Nyoirin Kannon holds the wish-fulfilling gem and the eight-spoked Dhamra wheel.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Kannon is known as World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva, appearing in Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, The Universal Gate of World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva.

Keywords:
Cycle
Empathy
Metamorphosis

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 23: Tide

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I clear away mistaken views.

Kami name:
Sumiyoshi Daimyojin
Sumiyoshi Daimyojin is the deity of the sea, sea-faring protection, a deity of purification, and is concerned with harmony.

Buddhist name:
Sho Kannon
Beings suffering from dire thirst receive water from the vase held by Sho Kannon in the realm of Hungry Ghosts. He provides safety to those who wish to reach the shore of final liberation from suffering.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Kannon is known as World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva, appearing in Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, The Universal Gate of World-Voice-Perceiver Bodhisattva.

Keywords:
Fluidity
Embracing
Purity

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 24: Grove

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I set aside greed, hatred, and delusion.

Kami name:
Gion Daimyojin
Gion Daimyojin is a wrathful nature spirit known as a Yaksha with a human body and cow horns. Gion wards off plagues and epidemics. Gion is said to have protected the Jetavana Grove, where the Buddha gave most of his early teachings, donated to the Buddha by Anathapindika.

Buddhist name:
Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha, Medicine-King Bodhisattva)
When seen standing, Yakushi is meant to resemble those in the lower realms of existence, such as human beings. In contrast to a seated, meditative position that can create distance from regular people, the standing position represents everyday existence in our regular-person world.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Yakushi appears throughout the Lotus Sutra and is highlighted in Chapter 23, The Previous Life of Medicine-King Bodhisattva, a manifestation of Yakushi. Yakushi can be identified partly by the medicine jar he holds that is filled with the herb myrobalan for healing.

Keywords:
Empathy
Herbalism
Generosity

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 25: Seed

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I transform into a state of perfect awareness.

Kami name:
Sekisan Daimyojin
Sekisan Daimyojin, as a celestial deity, is the god of destiny. He also presides over the underworld, where evil karma is diminished to be reborn to better circumstances.

Buddhist name:
Jizo Bodhisattva
Jizo eases the suffering of living and dead beings, particularly those trapped in the hellish underworld. Known for guarding children, Jizo can be recognized wearing a red cape and hat. Red is a color known in Buddhism that can be seen by spirits and repel evil and cure illness. Jizo has many forms; among them, he can be identified with a wish-fulfilling gem in his left hand and a pilgrim’s staff in his right hand.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Jizo is a primary attendant to Amida Buddha. Amida Buddha, called Amitayus, appears in Chapter 23 of the Lotus Sutra, The Previous Life of Medicine-King Bodhisattva. The Buddha assures anyone who hears chapter 23 will be provided a “World of Happiness’ surrounded by “great Bodhisattvas.”

Keywords:
Optimism
Destiny
Vision

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 26: Ridge

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I meet clinging and grasping with equanimity.

Kami name:
Takebe Daimyojin,
The shrine of Takebe Daimyojin was established on the ridge of Mt. Setago Ono sometime around 673-686AD in the Kyushu Mountains of Japan. The main deity of the shrine is Tamato Takeru no Mikoto. Together with Amaterasu Omikami and Okuninushi Mikoto, they are collectively called Takebe Daimyojin.

Buddhist name:
Amida Buddha
Similar to the triad of Takebe Daimyojin, Amida Sanzon, or the triad of Amida, is formed with Amida and attendants Kannon Bodhisattva, goddess of compassion, and Seishi Bodhisattva, whose virtue is strength (sometimes replaced by Jizo Bodhisattva).

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Amida Buddha, called Amitayus, appears in Chapter 7 of the Lotus Sutra, The Parable of a Magic City, and Chapter 23, The Previous Life of Medicine-King Bodhisattva.

Keywords:
Community
Uplifting
Center

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 27: Air

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, my compassion embraces plants and animals.

Kami name:
Mikami Daimyojin,
The summit of Mt. Mikami has been worshiped by the Japanese people and the imperial court since late 200 BC when Mikami descended to the sacred mountain. Mikami Daimyojin is a deity of fire and water and is associated with creating swords, iron bells, and ritual ornaments.

Buddhist name:
Senju Kannon
An esoteric form of Kannon, Senju Kannon has 1000 arms and eyes to watch over all sentient beings and lead them to end their suffering. Among the many objects held in each of the 1000 hands, Senju Kannon holds a five-colored cloud, symbolizing the five senses.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Kannon is present for the Ceremony in the Sky, where the Buddha taught a portion of the Lotus Sutra beginning in Chapter 11, Beholding the Stupa of Treasures.

Keywords:
Adaptation
Presence
Clearing

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 28: Lake

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I support diverse communities.

Kami name:
Hyosu Daimyojin
Observed as a white dragon riding a giant turtle in the lake, protected by many deer, Hyosu Daimyojin was enshrined in Yasu City, Shiga Prefecture. Hyosu Daimyojin is a deity of martial arts, making weapons, agriculture, and casting techniques.

Buddhist name:
Fudo Myo-o
Fudo Myo-o, the personification of Dainichi Buddha, stands on a rock in water, such as a waterfall or the sea. He holds a sword that wisdom can cut through ignorance. In some paintings, the blade has a dragon wound around it.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Dainichi appears as Vairocana as Vairocanarasmipramandita. Vairocanarasmipramandita is Light-Adornment in Chapter 27 of the Lotus Sutra, King Wonderful-Adornment.

Keywords:
Light
Perseverance
Strength

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 29: Cave

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I protect others from hatred.

Kami name:
Noka Daimyojin
Associated with peace in the realms of Heaven and Earth, agriculture, and industrial development. In a Japanese creation story, Amaterasu confined herself to a cave out of guilt resulting from a death involving her brother. She was eventually convinced to leave the cave partly by Nauka Daimyojin, who is enshrined with Noka Daimyojin.

Buddhist name:
Amida Buddha
As one of the five Wisdom Buddhas, or Jinas, Amida presides over death and the afterlife.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
In Chapter 23 of the Lotus Sutra, The Previous Life of Medicine-King Bodhisattva, the Buddha teaches that anyone who hears this chapter will sit “on the jeweled seat in the lotus flower blooming in the World of Happiness” where Amitaba lives “surrounded by great Bodhisattvas.”

Keywords:
Retreat
Friendship
Forgiveness

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 30: Sand

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I create unmeasurable benefits for the earth’s well-being.

Kami name:
Kibi Daimyojin
Kibi Daimyojin is associated with iron sand and blacksmithing and is a guardian of agriculture and longevity.

Buddhist name:
Kokuzo Bodhisattva
The Bodhisattva of Memory, Wisdom, and Compassion, Kokuzo helps to overcome obstacles on the path to one’s liberation and is identified with the morning star, Venus.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Kokuzo Bodhisattva is Ratnaprabha who manifests as the Buddha Ratnasambhava of the esoteric Five Wisdom Buddha, collectively synonymous with Shakyamuni Buddha, the author of the Lotus Sutra. Comprised of five manifestations of the Buddha, their wisdom allows for freedom from suffering.

Keywords:
Equality
Space
Wakefulness

31 Spirits of the Great Earth
Day 31: Soil

Prayer:
Reflecting your virtue, I alleviate grudges, lead beings away from suffering, and create a sustainable world for future generations.

Kami name:
None

Buddhist name:
Kishimojin
Kishimojin is the ruler of the soil and the energy it carries as an element of the earth.

Surrounding Mt. Sumeru, the central Buddhist mountain of the physical and spiritual universe, are the Four Heavenly Kings. The guardians of the four directions are Jikokuten of the East, Zochoten of the South, Komototen of the West, and Bishamonten of the North. In addition, the Zenith and Nadir are presided over by Kishimojin, protector of women, childbirth, and family harmony, safety, and well-being.

Relationship with the Lotus Sutra:
Kishimojin appears in Chapter 26 of the Lotus Sutra, Dharanis. In this chapter, she and her ten daughters vow to protect Bodhisattvas who are attacked or abused.

Keywords:
Innocence
Center
Harmony