Bonji and Buddhist deities
Here we introduce Bonji (Sanskrit Seed) and Buddhist deities adopted as designs at PY Kobo.
At the end of this page, we will also introduce “Bonji (Sanskrit Seed) to choose by wishes” and “Recommended items”, so please refer to them when choosing items.
What is Bonji?
Bonji is a sacred character that represents Shinto and Buddha in one character. In a broad sense, it refers to the Brahmi script of ancient India, but in a narrow sense, it refers to Sanskrit. Also Sanskrit characters mean characters created by Brahma. In PY Kobo, Bonji means the Sanskrit characters.
A variant of the Siddha‐mātṛkā script developed from the Brahmi script was transmitted from China to Japan along with Buddhism. These Bonji characters are called “悉曇文字” (Siddhaṃ script). In India, the Devanagari script, which is more advanced than the Siddha‐mātṛkā script, is used today.
PY Kobo creates accessories and designs using Sanskrit characters, which are called the Siddhaṃ script. We introduce Buddhist deities, who are related in Sanskrit characters, and profits. By all means, please refer to them when choosing items.
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed) and Buddhist deities’ profits
There are more than 1,800 Buddhist deities in the mandala that has been handed down to Japan. Also there are NYORAI (Tathagata), BOSATSU (Bodhisattva), MYOOH (Kings of Mystical Knowledge), TENBU (Divine Beings), and other groups in the Buddhist deities.
Benefit is the blessings and good luck that deity and Buddha give to humans. Depending on your wishes, you may be recovering from sickness or fulfilling your studies. The Buddhist deities also have individualities, and the blessings they have given are truly diverse.
We introduce the main blessings of Buddhist deities, so that you can be more happy by knowing the Buddhist deities who give you benefits that match your wishes.
NYORAI (Tathagata) Group
We introduce Nyorai (Tathagata) and blessings.The term “Buddha” mean to awaken, and is widely recognized Tathagata (Sanskrit) or Nyorai (Japanese) in Japan.
In the world of Buddha, there are the Kongokai (Diamond World) and Taizokai (Womb World). Dainichi Nyorai, who is considered to be the highest Buddha in the world of esotericism, inhabits each world, and therefore we describes three types of Sanskrit characters.
The enlightened Buddha is characterized by the unadorned clothing and the spiral hairstyle.
Nyorai (Tathagata)
Shaka Nyorai (Gautama), Ashuku Nyorai (Akshobhya), Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana), Amida Nyorai (Amitabha), Yakushi Nyorai (Bhaiṣajyaguru) etc.
Sanskrit name: Mahāvairocana
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Ban
Explanation: Cosmic Buddha, wears a crown and necklace. Central deity among the Five Buddha of Wisdom (Five Tathagata). As the patron deity (Honzon 本尊) for those who born in the Oriental zodiac years of the Sheep and the Monkey.
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Security (Antai 安泰), Better fortune (Kaiun 開運), Wish (Ganjyo 願成)
Famous temple: Enjoji 円成寺 (Nara prefecture)
Mantra: On basara dado ban (おん ばざら だど ばん)
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Baanku
Explanation: Symbolizes the wisdom needed to gain enlightenment.
Blessings: Achievement (Tassei 達成), Wisdom (Chie 智慧)
Famous temple: Enjoji 円成寺 (Nara prefecture)
Mantra: On bazara dado ban (おん ばざら だど ばん in Japanese)
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): aanku
Explanation: Symbolizes the infinite spread of mercy.
Blessings: Good Luck (Kouun 幸運), Huge harvest (Houjyo 豊穣)
Famous temple: Myourakuji 妙楽寺 (Chiba prefecture)
Mantra: Naumaku sanmanda bodanan abiraunken (なうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん あびらうんけん)
Sanskrit name: Vairocana
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): A
Explanation: Buddha’s psychology itself. Rubishana Nyorai is also called Rushanabutsu (盧舎那仏) and is said to represent the sun.
Blessings: Security (Antai 安泰), Good luck (Kouun 幸運), Better fortune (Kaiun 開運), Wish (Ganjyo 願成)
Famous temple: Todaiji Temple 東大寺 (Nara prefecture)
Mantra: Naumaku sanmanda bodanan abiraunken (なうまく さんまんだ ぼだなん あびらうんけん)
Sanskrit name: Sakyamuni
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Baku
Explanation: Gotama Siddhattha who was a prince of ancient India, attained enlightenment and became the founder of Buddhism. Oshaka-sama (お釈迦さま) in Japanese. It is said that Shaka Nyorai leads us to enlightenment.
Blessings: Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Guardian (Shugo 守護), Achievement (Tassei 達成), Wisdom (Chie 智慧)
Famous Temple: Horyuji 法隆寺 (Nara prefecture)
Mantra: Naumaku samanda bodanan Baku (なうまく さまんだ ぼだなん ばく)
Sanskrit name: Amitabha
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Kiriiku
Explanation: Buddha of Infinite Light and Life. The ruler of the Western Pure Land called the Land of Happiness (Gokurakujodo 極楽浄土) in Buddhism. It is said Amida Noray leads the deceased to the Land of Happiness.
As one of the 13 Buddha (Jūsanbutsu 十三仏).
As one of the Five Tathagata of Wisdom (Gochi Norai 五智如来).
As the patron deity (Honzon 本尊) for those who born in the Oriental zodiac years of the Dog and the Boar.
Blessings: Security (Antai 安泰), Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Future life in Buddhism (Raise 来世)
Famous temple: Byodoin Ho-oh-doh 平等院鳳凰堂 (Kyoto)
Mantra: On amirita tei zei kara un (おん あみりた てい ぜい から うん)
Sanskrit name: Bhaiṣajyaguru
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Bei
Explanation: Another name is Yakushirurikou Nyoyai 薬師瑠璃光如来. Yakushi Nyorai lives in the seventh of the seven eastern Pure Lands. It is said that Yakushi Nyorai helps and provides peace to those who are ill in this world. Yakushi Nyorai has a medicine pot in his hand.
As one of the 13 Buddha (Jūsanbutsu 十三仏).
As one of Seven Forms of Yakushi (Shichibutsu-yakushi 七仏薬師).
Blessings: Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Safe child birth (Anzan 安産), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒) (Especially eye disease)
Famous temple: Sinyakushiji 新薬師寺 (Nara prefecture)
Mantra: On korokoro sendari matougi sowaka (おん ころころ せんだり まとうぎ そわか)
Sanskrit name: Akṣobhya
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Un
Explanation: Imperturbable Buddha. In esoteric Buddhism, Ashuku Nyorai protects the East as the Buddha located on all four sides around Dainichi Nyorai. It is said Ashuku Nyorai gives a strong heart to overcome hesitation.
As one of the Five Tathagata of Wisdom (Gochi Norai 五智如来).
As one of Four Buddha of Four Directions (Shihou-shibutu 四方四仏) in Golden Light Sutra (Konkomyo-kyo Sutra 金光明経).
Blessings: Strong will (Fuwaku 不惑), Robustness (Kyuoken 強健), Health (Kenkou 健康), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒)
Famous temple: Toji temple 東寺 (Kyoto)
Mantra: On akishubiya un (おん あきしゅびや うん)
BOSATSU Group
We introduce the main BOSATSU (Bodhisattva) and blessings in two parts.
BOSATSU (Bodhisattva) Part 1
Those who are training for the purpose of enlightenment, are characterized by wearing ornaments such as crowns and necklaces.
BOSATSU (Bodhisattva)
Kannon Bosatsu (Avalokitesvara), Kokuzo Bosatsu(Akasagarbha), Miroku Bosatu(Maitreya), Monju Bosatsu(Manjushri), Fugen Bosatu(Samantabhadra) etc..
Sanskrit name: Maitreya
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Yu
Explanation: It is said that he will give people the merits of this world’s interest while practicing to become Nyorai.
Blessings: Salvation in the afterlife
Famous temple: Chusonji 中宮寺 (Nara prefecture)
Mantra: On Maitareiya sowaka (おん まいたれいや そわか)
Sanskrit name: Avalokiteśvara
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Sa
Explanation:Also known as Kanzeon Bosatsu (観世音菩薩). It is said that it will change into six different shapes and save the people of the Rokudo world (六道).
Blessings: Salvation of all desires and distress
Famous temple: Daihouonji 大報恩寺 (Kyoto prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Arorikiya sowaka (おん あろりきや そわか)
Sanskrit name: āvalokiteśvara
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Sa
Explanation: Kannon Bosatsu. It is said to save the people of the Rokudo world of hell.
Blessings: Afterlife (Raise 来世), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Better fortune (Kaiun 開運rt>かいうん), Wish (Ganjyo 願成)
Famous temple: Asakusaji 浅草寺 (Tokyo)
Mantra: On Arorikiya Sowaka (おん あろりきや そわか)
Sanskrit name: Ekadaśamukha
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Kya
Explanation: Kannon who has 11 different faces on his head and is watching all directions. It is said that the transformation of Kannon Bodhisattva will save those who are lost in the Asura world (Ashura-kai 阿修羅界) of Rokudo.
Blessings: Security (Antai 安泰), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒), Huge harvest (Houjyo 豊穣), Victory (Shouri 勝利)
Famous temple: Kannonji 観音寺 (Kyoto) *National treasure
Mantra: On Rokeijinbara Kiriku Sowaka (おん ろけいじんばら きりく そわか)
Sanskrit name: Sahasrabhuja
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Kiriiku
Explanation: Kannon with eleven faces and 1,000 hands. It is said that the transformation of Kannon Bodhisattva will help those who are lost in the hungry spirits world (Gaki-kai (餓鬼界) of the Rokudo worlds.
Blessings: Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒), Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Success of Love (Renai Jyouju 恋愛成就), Wish (Ganjyo 願成)
Famous temple: Sanjyusangengou 三十三間堂 (Kyoto)
Mantra: On Bazara tarama Kiriku (おん ばざら たらま きりく)
Sanskrit name: Hayagrīva
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Uun
Explanation: Guardian Buddha of animals. It’s characterized by its angry face, and is said to save those lost in the animal world of the Rikudo worlds.
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Traffic safety (Koutsu Anzen 交通安全), Animal protection (Doubutsu Shugo 動物守護)
Famous temple: Magoji 馬居寺 (Fukui prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Amiritodoban Un Batta Sowaka (おん あみりとどばん うん ばった そわか)
Sanskrit name: Cintāmaṇicakra
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Kiriku
Explanation: It is said that he is a transformation of Kannon Bodhisattva and rescues those who are lost in the Heavenly World of the Rokudo worlds and gives people happiness and treasures, and crushes their anguish.
Blessings: Safe child birth (Anzan 安産), Huge harvest (Houjyo 豊穣), Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Wisdom (Chie 智慧)
Famous Temple: Kanshinji 観心寺 (Osaka) *National treasure
Mantra: On Handoma Shindamani Jinbara Un (おん はんどま しんだまに じんばら うん)
Sanskrit name: Cundī
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Bo
Explanation: Originally the goddess Durga, the princess of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. It is said that it symbolizes motherhood and confers a compassionate cleanliness. Another name is Shichikuteibutsumo (七倶胝仏母).
Blessings: Pregnancy (Kosazuke 子授け), Safe child birth (Anzan 安産), Guardian (Shugo 守護), Purification (Jyouka 浄化)
Famous temple: Daigoji 醍醐寺 (Kyoto)*World Heritage
Mantra: On sharei Juntei Sowaka (おん しゃれい しゅれい じゅんてい そわか)
BOSATSU Group Part2
Sanskrit name: Mañjuśrī
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Man
Explanation: According to the saying, “Two heads are better than one,” Bodhisattva riding a lion famous for wisdom and learning. As the patron deity (Honzon 本尊) for those who born in the Oriental zodiac years of the Rabbit.
Blessings: Success in entrance examinations (Goukaku 合格), Academic achievement (Gakugyo Jyoju 学業成就), Better fortune (Kaiun 開運), Wisdom (Chie 智慧)
Famous temple: Abe Monjuin 安倍文殊院 (Nara prefecture) *National Treasure
Mantra: On Arahasha Nou (おん あらはしゃ のう)
Sanskrit name: Samantabhadra
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): An
Explanation: A bodhisattva who rides on an elephant, and is said to appear everywhere and save life. As the patron deity (Honzon 本尊) for those who born in the Oriental zodiac years of the Dragon and the Snake.
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Better fortune (Kaiun 開運), Wisdom (Chie 智慧)
Famous temple: Ookura Shukokan大倉集古館 (Tokyo) *National Treasure
Mantra: On Sanmaiya Satoban (おん さんまいや さとばん)
Sanskrit name: Kṣitigarbha
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Ka
Explanation: A bodhisattva who is famous for Ojizo-san (お地蔵さん), which is said to be the incarnation of Enma Daio. It is said to envelop and save people with a great heart of compassion.
Blessings: Safe child birth (Anzan 安産), Huge harvest (Houjyo 豊穣), Traffic safety (Koutsu Anzen 交通安全), Health (Kenkou 健康)
Famous temple: Horyuji 法隆寺 (Nara prefecture) *National Treasure
Mantra: On Kakaka Bisanmaei Sowaka (おん かかか びさんまえい そわか)
Sanskrit name: Mahāsthāmaprāpta
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Saku
Explanation: It is said that the light of wisdom illuminates everything to save people from hesitation and suffering. As the patron deity (Honzon 本尊) for those who born in the Oriental zodiac years of the Horse.
Blessings: Wish (Ganjyo 願成), Family (Kazoku 家族), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Wisdom (Chie 智慧)
Famous Temple: Ninnaji 仁和寺 (Kyoto) *National Treasure
Mantra: On Sanzansaku Sowaka (おん さんざんさく そわか)
Sanskrit name: Ākāśagarbha
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Taraaku
Explanation: It is said that he is the Bodhisattva who controls the two virtues of the goodness of Dainichi Nyorai, and he gives people infinite wisdom and compassion. As the patron deity (Honzon 本尊) for those who born in the Oriental zodiac years of the Ox and the Tiger.
Blessings: Achievement (Tassei 達成), Skill improvement (Gigei Jyotatsu 技芸上達), Academic achievement (Gakugyo Jyoju 学業成就), Wisdom (Chie 智慧)
Famous temple: Jingoji Tahoutou 神護寺多宝塔 (Kyoto) *National Treasure (Special release only)
Mantra: On Basara Aratannou On Taraku Sowaka (おん ばさら あらたんのう おん たらく そわか)
Sanskrit name: Suryaprabha
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): A
Explanation: Bodhisattva is enshrined as Yakushi Nyorai’s left armor. It is said to illuminate the sunlight and eliminate the darkness of suffering.
Blessings: Good luck (Kouun 幸運), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒), Health (Kenkou 健康), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除)
Famous temple: Yakushiji 薬師寺(Nara prefecture) *National Treasure
Mantra: On Soriya Harabaya Sowaka (おん そりや はらばや そわか)
Sanskrit name: Candraprabha
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Sha
Explanation: Bodhisattva is enshrined as the right armor of Yakushi Nyorai. It is said that he will remove the anxiety with the kindness of the moonlight.
Blessings: Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒), Security (Antai 安泰), Longevity (Chojyu 長寿)
Famous temple: Todaiji Temple 東大寺 (Nara prefecture) *National Treasure
Mantra: On Sendara Harabaya Sowaka (おん せんだら はらばや そわか)
Sanskrit name: Bhaisajyaraja
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Bei
Explanation: Yakujo Bosatsu’s older brother. He is said to be enshrined as a side samurai of Shaka Nyorai and cures both physical and mental health of people with medicine.
Blessings: Health (Kenkou 健康), Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒)
Famous Temple: Kofukuji 興福寺 (Nara prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Biseishara Jyaya Sowaka (おん びせいしゃら じゃや そわか)
Sanskrit name: Bhaisajyasumudgata
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Bei
Explanation: Yakuo Bosatsu’s younger brother. He is enshrined as a side samurai of Shaka Nyorai.
Blessings: Health (Kenkou 健康), Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒)
Famous temple: Horyuji 法隆寺 (Nara prefecture) *National Treasure
Mantra: On Biseishara Jyaya Sowaka (おん びせいしゃら じゃや そわか)
Myo-ou Group
We introduce the main Myo-ou and blessings.
Nyorai’s incarnation, characterized by terrifying features and weapons to guide the wrong people to the right path.
Myo-ou (Kings of Mystical Knowledge)
Fudo Myo-ou (Acalanatha), Aizen Myo-ou (Ragaraja), Kongōyasha Myo-ou (Vajrayaksha),Gundari Myo-ou (Kundali) etc.
Sanskrit name: Acalanatha
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Kan, Kanmaan
Explanation: Another name for the Lord Shiva in India, he is said to be an incarnation of Dainichi Nyorai, and will deliver to the heavens the purified wishes that have crushed anguish.
Blessings: Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Better fortune (Kaiun 開運), Certain Victory (Hisshou 必勝),Innocence (Fuwaku 不惑)
Famous temple: Touji Mieido 東寺御影堂 (Kyoto) *National Treasure
Mantra: Naumaku Samanda Bazara Dan Kan (なうまく さまんだ ばざら だん かん)
Sanskrit name: Trilokavijaya
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Un
Explanation: It is said that he protects the Eastern Buddhist world and will get rid of the anxieties (desire, anger, complaints) existing in the past, present, and future world at the behest of Ashuku Nyorai (Akṣobhya).
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Security (Antai 安泰), Innocence (Fuwaku 不惑), Annihilating the enemy (Metsuteki 滅敵)
Famous temple: Kongoji Kondo 金剛寺金堂 (Osaka) *National Treasure
Mantra: On Sonba Nisonba Un Bazara Un Batta (おん そんば にそんば うん ばざら うん ばった)
Sanskrit name: Kundali
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Un
Explanation: It is said that he will protect the southern Buddhist World and remove various obstacles at the behest of Hosho Nyorai (Ratnasambhava).
Blessings: Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒), Innocence (Fuwaku 不惑)
Famous temple: Konshoji Nigatsudo 金勝寺二月堂 (Shiga prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Amirithi Un Batta (おん あみりてぃ うん ばった)
Sanskrit name: Yamantaka
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Kiriiku
Explanation: Myo-ou with six faces and legs, who protects the western Buddhist World riding a buffalo. He is said to be strong enough to defeat poisonous snakes and evil dragons.
Blessings: Victory (Shouri 勝利), Innocence (Fuwaku 不惑), Annihilating the enemy (Metsuteki 滅敵), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除)
Famous Temple: Makiodo 真木大堂 (Oita prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Shuchiri Kyararoha Unken Sowaka (おん しゅちり きゃらろは うんけん そわか)
Sanskrit name: Vajrayaksha
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Uun
Explanation: It is said that he protects the northern Buddhist World, consume the bad desires of the past, present and future, and then cleanse the mind with the wisdom of the Buddha.
Blessings: Wisdom (Chie 智慧), Innocence (Fuwaku 不惑), Annihilating the enemy (Metsuteki 滅敵), Victory (Sensho 戦勝)
Famous Temple: Enryakuji Kokuhoukan 延暦寺国宝館 (Shiga prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Bazara Yakisha Un (おん ばざら やきしゃ うん)
Sanskrit name:
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Uun
Explanation: It is said that he lives in the world of fire, called Kashozanmai (火生三昧), between the human world and the Buddhist World, and burns his anxieties and desires with holy flames. He is said to have the sacred power to purify the spirits, and it is also enshrined as the god of the toilet and kitchen.
Blessings: Luck of Money (Kinun (金運), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒), Purification (Jyouka 浄化), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除)
Famous Temple: Zuiryoji 瑞龍寺 (Toyama prefecture) *Prefecturally-designated important cultural property
Mantra: On Shurimarimamari Marishushuri Sowaka (おん しゅりまりままり まりしゅしゅり そわか)
Sanskrit name: Ragaraja
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Un
Explanation: It is said that he will guide lust and anxiety to enlightenment, and save various worries. The god of love.
Blessings: Health (Kenkou 健康), Family (Kazoku 家族), Good match (Ryouen 良縁), Success of Love (Renai Jyouju 恋愛成就)
Famous Temple: Saidaiji Aizendo 西大寺愛染堂 (Nara prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Makaragya Bazaroushunisha Bazarasatoba Jyakuun Bankoku (おん まからぎゃ ばざろうしゅにしゃ ばざらさとば じゃくうん ばんこく)
Sanskrit name: Āṭavaka
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): A
Explanation: He protects the nation with tremendous power.
Blessings: Security (Antai 安泰), Guardian (Shugo 守護), Annihilating the enemy (Metsuteki 滅敵), Victory (Sensho 戦勝)
Famous Temple: Akishinodera 秋篠寺 (Nara prefecture)
Mantra: Noubou Tari Tabori Barabori Shakinmei Tarasantan Oenbi Sowaka (のうぼう たり たぼり ばらぼり しゃきんめい たらさんたん おえんび そわか)
Sanskrit name: Mahamayuri
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Ma
Explanation: Beautiful Myo-ou riding a peacock. He is said to bring happiness away from anxiety, suffering and fear.
Blessings: Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Purification (Jyouka 浄化), Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒)
Famous Temple: Kouyasan Kongoubuji 高野山金剛峯寺 (Wakayama prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Mayura Kirandei Sowaka (おん まゆら きらんでい そわか)
Sanskrit name: –
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Un
Explanation: Yasha god derived from the teaching of Chinese Taoism. He is known as the principal deity of Koshin-ko (organizations celebrating Koshin), an event that enshrines Shinto and Buddhist deities on the day of Koshin by Japanese folk belief.
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Security (Antai 安泰), Health (Kenkou 健康), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除)
Famous Temple: Toji Temple 東大寺 (Nara prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Deiba Yakisha Banda Banda Kakakaka Sowaka (おん でいば やきしゃ ばんだ ばんだ かかかか そわか)
TENBU-Group
We introduce the main Tenbu (Hindu demi-gods) and blessings in two parts.
TENBU (Hindu demi-gods) Part1
They are gods who have been devoted to the Buddha and are derived from Hinduism in India. “Tenjiku” means “India”.
TENBU (Hindu demi-gods)
Benzaiten (Governs music and arts), Daikokuten (god of wealth and farmers), Bishamonten (god of warriors), Kisshouten (goddess of Happiness), Marishiten (goddess of Wealth, War), Taishakuten (god of the Center) etc.
Sanskrit name: Brahman
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Bora
Explanation: Originated from Brahma, the highest god of ancient India.He is a guardian deity of Buddhist law and is famous for riding a geese.
Blessings: Achievement (Tassei 達成), Successful career (出世), Security (Antai 安泰), Guardian (Shugo 守護)
Famous temple: Toji Koudo 東寺講堂 (Nara prefecture) *National Treasure
Mantra: Naumaku Samanda Bodanan Borakanmanei Sowaka (なうまく さまんだ ぼだなん ぼらかんまねい そわか)
Sanskrit name: Indra
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): I
Explanation: Originated from Indra, a hero of ancient Indian mythology. Famous for riding a white elephant. It is said that he will watch over everything that lives from the summit of Mount Shumisen in the Buddhist world.
Blessings: Successful career (Shusse 出世), Good Luck (Kouun 幸運), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Victory (Shouri 勝利)
Famous temple: Toji Koudo 東寺講堂 (Nara prefecture) *National Treasure
Mantra: Naumaku Samanda Bodanan Indaraya Sowaka (なうまく さまんだ ぼだなん いんだらや そわか)
Sanskrit name: Vajrapāṇi
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): A, Uun
Explanation: Originated from Vajradhara of the ancient Indian myth. A guardian deity with a Kongosho, which is a weapon that dispels enemies against Buddhism. There are statues of “Agata” with open mouth and “Ungata” with closed mouth.
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Annihilating the enemy (Metsuteki 滅敵), Robustness (Kyuoken 強健)
Famous temple: Todaiji Minami-mon 東大寺南大門 (Nara prefecture) *National Treasure
Agata Mantra: Namasamandaba Saranan Toradarisei Makarishyanakyanasesarubadataagyatanen Kurosowaka (なまさまんだば さらなん とらだりせい まかろしやなきゃなせさるばだたあぎゃたねん くろそわか)
Ungata Mantra: Namasamandaba Saranan Keiabimokya Makaharasendakyanayakinjiraya Samase Samase Mansanmara Sowaka (なまさまんだば さらなん けいあびもきゃ まかはらせんだきゃなやきんじらや さませ さませ まなさんまら そわか)
Sanskrit name: Vaiśravaṇa
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Bei
Explanation: Famous as the god of fortune of the Seven lucky gods, and he is also enshrined as a god of warriors. The predecessor is Kubēra, the treasure god of Indian mythology and he protects the northern Buddhist world.
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Wisdom (Chie 智慧), Annihilating the enemy (Metsuteki 滅敵), Certain victory (Hissho 必勝)
Famous temple: Kuramadera 鞍馬寺 (Kyoto) *National Treasure
Mantra: Naumaku Samanda Bodanan Bayabei Sowaka (なうまく さまんだ ぼだなん ばやべい そわか)
Sanskrit name: Śrī-mahādevī
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Shirii
Explanation: The predecessor is Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess. She is enshrined as the goddess who controls beauty and fertility.
Blessings: Wish (Ganjyo 願成), Business success (商売繁盛), Success of Love (Renai Jyouju 恋愛成就), Good Luck (Kouun 幸運)
Famous temple: Fukkouonji 福光園寺 (Yamanashi prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Maka Shuriei Sowaka (おん まか しゅりえい そわか)
Sanskrit name: Nandikeśvara
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Gyaku
Explanation: The predecessor is the Indian mythology demon called Ganapati or Ganesha. In the Buddhist world, he is considered as the god who protects Buddhism by eliminating obstacles and difficulties.
Blessings: Pregnancy (Kosazuke 子授け), Family (Kazoku 家族), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒)
Famous Temple: Houkaiji Kankiten-do 宝戒寺歓喜天堂 (Kanagawa prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Kiriku Gyaku Un Sowaka (おん きりく ぎゃく うん そわか)
Sanskrit name: Sarasvatī
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): So
Explanation: Originated from the goddess of Music, the wife of Hindu god Brahma. She is famous as the goddess who bestows the fortune and treasure of the Seven lucky gods. In Japan, she is also known as Benten-sama.
Blessings: Success in entrance examinations (Goukaku 合格), Wisdom (Chie 智慧), Skill improvement (Gigei Jyotatsu 技芸上達), Luck of Money (Kinun (金運)
Famous Temple: Kamakura Kokuhokan 鎌倉国宝館 (Kanagawa prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Sorasobateiei Sowaka (おん そらそばていえい そわか)
Sanskrit name: Hārītī
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Uun
Explanation: The predecessor is a female demon of Indian mythology. In the Buddhist world, she is enshrined as the good deity that protects children, safe child birth, and raising children.
Blessings: Security (Antai 安泰), Family (Kazoku 家族), Safe child birth (Anzan 安産), Pregnancy (Kosazuke 子授け)
Famous Temple: Kishimojin-do 鬼子母神堂 (Tokyo) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Dodomari Gyakitei Sowaka (おん どどまり ぎゃきてい そわか)
TENBU Part2
Sanskrit name: Skanda
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Kuu
Explanation: The predecessor is Skanda, the Hindu god of war. He is also known as the god excluding the sickness of children.
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Antitheft (Tounan yoke 盗難除け), Cooking (Ryouri 料理), Robustness (Kyuoken 強健)
Famous Temple: Osshinji 乙津寺 (Gifu prefecture) *Important cultural property
Mantra: On Idateita Mokoteita Sowaka (おん いだていた もこていた そわか)
Sanskrit name: Mahākāla
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Ma
Explanation: The predecessor is the god of battle (the incarnation of Shiva, who controls the destruction of Hinduism). In the Buddhist world, he is famous as the god of the good harvest of the Seven lucky gods. In Japan, he is known as Daikoku-sama.
Blessings: Security (Antai 安泰), Business success (商売繁盛), Luck of Money (Kinun (金運), Victory (Shouri 勝利)
Famous Temple: Kanzeonji Houzouko 観世音寺宝蔵庫 (Fukuoka prefecture)
Mantra: On Makokyaraya Sowaka (おん まこきゃらや そわか)
Sanskrit name: Unidentified
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): U
Explanation: Originated from the celestial maiden born from the hair of Indian god, Shiva. It is said that there is the benefit to improve the arts because of her beautiful appearance and excellent skill.
Blessings: Wish (Ganjyo 願成), Developing talent (Sainou Kaika 才能開花), Good Luck (Kouun 幸運), Skill improvement (Gigei Jyotatsu 技芸上達)
Famous Temple: Akishinodera 秋篠寺 (Nara prefecture)
Mantra: Noubou Makeijinbaraya Ushima Boushikyaya Sowaka (のうぼう まけいじんばらや うしま ぼうしきゃや そわか)
Sanskrit name: Ḍākinī
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Da
Explanation: The predecessor is the female Yasha (demon) in the ancient India. In Japan, she is enshrined as a goddess who is identified with the Inari shrine god and brings abundant harvest.
Blessings: Wish (Ganjyo 願成), Huge harvest (Houjyo 豊穣), Successful career (Shusse 出世), Better fortune (Kaiun 開運)
Famous Temple: Toyokawa Inari 豊川稲荷 /Official name: Enpukuzan Toyokawakaku Myougonji 円福山豊川閣妙厳寺 (Aichi prefecture)
Mantra: Naumaku Samanda Badanan Kirika Sowaka (なうまく さまんだ ばだなん きりか そわか)
Sanskrit name: Marīcī
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Ma
Explanation: Originated from Ushas, the goddess of Indian mythology. She is enshrined as the self-defense goddness that protects people from things that cannot be seen using the magical power.
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Good Luck (Kouun 幸運), Annihilating the enemy (Metsuteki 滅敵), Victory (Sensho 戦勝)
Famous Temple: Tokudaiji 徳大寺 (Tokyo)
Mantra: On Marishi Ei Sowaka (おん まりし えい そわか)
Sanskrit name: Yama
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): En
Explanation: The predecessor is Yama, who passed away for the first time and became king of the underworld in Indian mythology. He protects the southern part of the Buddhist world and controls hell (the underworld).
Blessings: Guardian (Shugo 守護), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒), Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Warding off evil (Yakuyoke 厄除)
Famous Temple: Byoudouji 平等寺 (Kyoto)
Mantra: Naumaku Samanda Bodanan Enmaya Sowaka (なうまく さまんだ ぼだなん えんまや そわか)
Sanskrit name: Asura
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): A
Explanation: The predecessor is Asura, the demon king of Indian mythology. In the Buddhist world, he is the strongest guardian deity that symbolizes battle.
Blessings: Longevity (Chojyu 長寿), Guardian (Shugo 守護), Perseverance (Nintai 忍耐), Victory (Shouri 勝利)
Famous Temple: Kofukuji 興福寺 (Nara prefecture)
Mantra: Noumaku Samanda Bodanan Ratanratato Baran Tan (のうまく さまんだ ぼだなん らたんらたと ばらん たん)
Sanskrit name: Garuda
Bonji (Sanskrit Seed): Ga
Explanation: The predecessor is Garda, the divine bird wrapped in the flames of Indian mythology. It is said to be the holy bird that consumes all evil, and is also known as a model of Tengu in Japan.
Blessings: Weather (Tenki 天気), Busting evils (Metsuaku 滅悪), Health (Kenkou 健康), Cure of the illness (Byouki-heiyu 病気平癒)
Famous Temple: Kofukuji 興福寺 (Nara prefecture) *National treasure
Mantra: On Garudaya Sowaka (おん がるだや そわか)
Other honors
Other Buddhas, such as Buddha’s disciples and high priests. It is believed Suijaku is a god that appeared to save people by borrowing the image of a Japanese god.
■Main honors
Rakan (Buddha’s disciple), Enma-ou, Shinramyoujin (Suijaku God), Yuima (Indian grandfather), etc.
Bonji (Sanskrit letters) and Eto (the 12 earthly signs)
In Japan, there are guardian animals called Eto (the 12 earthly signs) depending on the year of birth. In addition, there are Buddhas who protect the Eto animals.
Items using Bonji (Sanskrit letters) of Buddhas protect the Eto animals are popular both as guardian items and as gifts.
For details on Bonji, please refer to this page.
Bonji: Kiriiku
Buddha: Senju kannon bosatsu (sahasrabhuja)
Guardian stone: Citrine
Benefits: Illness healing, longevity, romance, wishes
Mantra: On basara tarama kiriku sowaka
Bonji: Taraaku
Buddha: Kokuzou bosatsu (Ākāśagarbha)
Guardian stone: Moonstone
Benefits: Achievement, art, academics, wisdom
Mantra: On basara aratannou on taraku sowaka
Bonji: Taraaku
Buddha: Kokuzou bosatsu (Ākāśagarbha)
Guardian stone: Tiger eye
Benefits: Achievement, art, academics, wisdom
Mantra: On basara aratannou on taraku sowaka
Bonji: Man
Buddha: Monju bosatsu (Mañjuśrī)
Guardian stone: Jade
Benefits: Success in exams, academics, good luck, wisdom
Mantra: On arahasha nou
Bonji: An
Buddha: Fugen bosatsu (Samantabhadra)
Guardian stone: Carnelian
Benefits: Guardianship, longevity, good luck, wisdom
Mantra: On sanmaya sataban
Bonji: An
Buddha: Fugen bosatsu (Samantabhadra)
Guardian stone: Hematite
Benefits: Guardianship, longevity, good luck, wisdom
Mantra: On sanmaya sataban
Bonji: Saku
Buddha: Seishi bosatsu (Mahāsthāmaprāpta)
Guardian stone: Agate
Benefits: Wishes, family, get rid of bad luck, wisdom
Mantra: On sanzanzansaku sowaka
Bonji: Ban
Buddha: Dainichi nyorai (Mahāvairocana)
Guardian stone: Coral
Benefits: Guardianship, security, good luck, wishes
Mantra: On basaradatoban
Bonji: Ban
Buddha: Dainichi nyorai (Mahāvairocana)
Guardian stone: Crystal
Benefits: Guardianship, security, good luck, wishes
Mantra: On basaradatoban
Bonji: Kaan
Buddha: Fudo myouou
Guardian stone: Blue lace agate
Benefits: Get rid of bad luck, good luck, victory, annoyance
Mantra: Naumaku saramanda basaradan kan
Bonji: Kiriiku
Buddha: Amida nyorai (Amitābha)
Guardian stone: Lapis lazuli
Benefits: Security, longevity, get rid of bad luck, afterlife
Mantra: On amirita teisei kara un
Bonji: Kiriiku
Buddha: Amida nyorai (Amitābha)
Guardian stone: Rose Quartz
Benefits: Security, longevity, get rid of bad luck, afterlife
Mantra: On amirita teisei kara un
Bonji based on prayer
There are many wishes in life, such as “I want to stay healthy” and “I want to pass the examination”. Introducing Bonji (Sanskrit letters) that match each wish.