Bishamonten is a prominent figure in Japanese mythology, revered as a god of war and protector of warriors. The name Bishamonten is derived from the Sanskrit word Vaiśravaṇa, which means “son of Vishrava”. He is one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese folklore, and his influence can be seen in art, literature, and popular culture throughout East Asia.
As a warrior god, Bishamonten is often depicted wearing armor and wielding a spear in one hand and a pagoda in the other. His facial expressions vary depending on the artist, with some portraying him as excited and others as stern and discerning. Bishamonten is unique among the Seven Lucky Gods in that he is associated with wealth and good fortune, as well as protection.
In Japanese mythology, Bishamonten is the chief of the Four Heavenly Kings, who watch over the four cardinal directions of the world to protect it from evil. He is the guardian of the north and is often depicted alongside the other kings, Kōmokuten, Zōchōten, and Tamonten. Bishamonten’s family tree is also significant, as his father is believed to be Kubera, the god of wealth in Hindu mythology.
Overview
Bishamonten is a prominent Japanese deity revered for his role as protector of warriors and sacred locations. His origins can be traced back to India, where he was originally known as Vaisravana, one of the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhism. Bishamonten is one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology, and is often depicted wearing armor and wielding a spear in one hand and a pagoda in the other.
Bishamonten is unique among the Seven Lucky Gods in that he is a warrior god, and is often associated with the protection of Buddhist temples and their treasures. He is also considered to be a god of wealth and prosperity, and is often depicted holding a bag of treasure or surrounded by piles of gold coins.
In addition to his role as a protector of warriors and sacred locations, Bishamonten is also believed to have the power to grant wishes and bring good fortune to those who pray to him. He is often depicted with a stern expression, reflecting his role as a powerful and authoritative figure in Japanese mythology.
Overall, Bishamonten is a complex and multifaceted deity, with a rich history and a wide range of attributes and associations. Whether he is seen as a protector of warriors and sacred locations, a god of wealth and prosperity, or a powerful figure with the ability to grant wishes and bring good fortune, Bishamonten remains an important figure in Japanese mythology and culture.
Etymology
Bishamonten is a Japanese deity whose name is derived from the Sanskrit word “Vaisravana,” meaning “son of Vaisrava,” the Hindu god of wealth and the north. He is also known as Tamonten or Bishamon, and he is one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology.
The name Bishamonten is composed of three kanji characters: “毘,” “沙,” and “門.” The first character, “毘,” means “to compare,” “to match,” or “to rival.” The second character, “沙,” means “sand” or “gravel.” The third character, “門,” means “gate,” “door,” or “portal.” Together, the name Bishamonten can be translated as “the gatekeeper who compares sand,” which suggests his role as a guardian and protector.
In Japanese folklore, Bishamonten is often depicted as a fierce warrior, wearing armor and wielding a spear and a pagoda. His image is similar to that of a samurai, and he is known as the protector of warriors and sacred places. Bishamonten is also associated with wealth and good fortune, and his influence can be seen in art, literature, and popular culture throughout East Asia.
Attributes
Bishamonten is a god of war and wealth who is known for his armor and weapon. His iconography is almost identical to that of Tamonten, another of the Four Heavenly Kings, and he is often depicted in armor and carrying a weapon such as a halberd or lance. He is also sometimes shown holding a small pagoda, which symbolizes the divine treasure house that he both guards and gives away.
Iconography
Bishamonten’s armor and weapon are his most distinctive attributes. He is often depicted wearing yoroi, a type of Japanese armor, and carrying a weapon such as a halberd or lance. In some depictions, he is shown standing atop one or two demons, symbolizing the subjugation of evil. His facial expressions vary depending on the artist, but he is sometimes depicted as excited and other times stern and discerning.
Symbols
Bishamonten’s most important symbol is the small pagoda that he sometimes carries. This pagoda represents the divine treasure house that he both guards and gives away. In addition to the pagoda, Bishamonten is sometimes depicted with a variety of other symbols, such as a sword or a banner.
Virtues
Bishamonten is associated with a number of virtues, including bravery, protection, and wealth. As a god of war, he is known for his bravery and fighting prowess, and he is often called upon to protect people from harm. He is also associated with wealth and is sometimes called upon to bring prosperity to those who worship him.
Family Tree
Parentage
Bishamonten’s parentage is not entirely clear. In some sources, he is said to be the son of the god of creation, Brahma, while in others, he is said to be the son of the god of wealth, Kubera. However, he is most commonly associated with the Hindu god of wealth and prosperity, Vaishravana.
Siblings
Bishamonten is often depicted as one of the Four Heavenly Kings in Japanese mythology, along with the gods Jikokuten, Komokuten, and Zochoten. In some traditions, he is also considered to be the brother of the god of thunder, Raijin.
Progeny
Bishamonten is not typically associated with any children in Japanese mythology, but he is often depicted as a protector of children and families. In some traditions, he is also said to have a close relationship with the goddess of mercy, Kannon, who is sometimes depicted as his consort.
Overall, Bishamonten’s family tree is complex and varies depending on the source. However, he is most commonly associated with the gods of wealth and prosperity, as well as the other members of the Four Heavenly Kings.
Mythology
Legends
Bishamonten is a popular figure in Japanese mythology and is often depicted as a warrior god. According to legend, he was originally a god of wealth and treasure, but later became known as a god of war and protection. He is often associated with the north and is considered one of the Four Heavenly Kings in Buddhism.
One of the most famous legends involving Bishamonten is the story of the “Seven Gods of Fortune.” In this story, Bishamonten is one of the seven gods who visit a poor farmer and bless him with good fortune.
Worship
Bishamonten is still worshipped in Japan today, particularly by those who seek protection and good fortune. He is often depicted in Japanese art, and his image can be found in many Buddhist temples throughout the country.
Worshippers often pray to Bishamonten for protection in battle, as well as for good luck and wealth. In some cases, he is also worshipped as a patron of the arts.
Cultural Impact
Bishamonten has had a significant impact on Japanese culture, particularly in the areas of art and literature. His image has been depicted in countless works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and even tattoos.
In literature, Bishamonten is often referenced as a symbol of strength and protection. He is also sometimes portrayed as a wise and just ruler, and is often associated with the concept of karma.
Overall, Bishamonten remains an important figure in Japanese mythology and culture, and continues to be revered by many today.