The Four Ranks of Buddhist Deities

Japanese Buddhism arranges its many figures in four ranks: buddhas, bodhisattvas, wisdom kings and devas. Each rank has its own dress, bearing and role, so that once you can recognise the rank, you are already halfway to naming the figure. This entry is the family tree of the dictionary.

The ranks at a glance

Rank Appearance Role
Nyorai, buddhas Plain robe, curled hair, no jewellery Fully awakened; the centre of worship
Bosatsu, bodhisattvas Crown, jewels, scarves Compassion in action; helpers and guides
Myōō, wisdom kings Fierce faces, flames, weapons, many arms Forceful protection; subduing obstacles
Ten, devas Armour, court robes or a lady's dress Guardians of the teaching; givers of fortune

Buddhas

Shaka, Amida, Yakushi, Dainichi, Birushana and the Thirteen Buddhas.

Bodhisattvas

Kannon and her forms, Senju, Jūichimen, Nyoirin, Batō and Juntei; Jizō, Monju, Fugen, Seishi, Kokūzō and Miroku.

Wisdom kings

Fudō and the Five Great Kings, Gōzanze, Gundari, Daiitoku and Kongōyasha; Aizen, Kujaku and Ususama.

Devas

The Four Heavenly Kings and Bishamonten, the Niō, Bonten and Taishakuten, Benzaiten, Daikokuten, Kangiten, Kichijōten, Marishiten, Idaten, Kishimojin, Enma, the Twelve Generals, the Eight Legions, Fūjin and Raijin, the celestial beings and Karyōbinga.

Beyond the four ranks

See also

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