Dainichi

Spreader of Light in All Directions; The Great Illuminator

ALSO KNOWN AS:

Dai Nichi

CLASSIFICATION:

Buddha

Dainichi is the Japanese name and manifestation of Mahavairocana, the Great Sun Buddha, Lord of the Cosmos, venerated in the Shingon esoteric Buddhist tradition.

FAVOURED PEOPLE:

Dainichi is guardian of those born in the years of the monkey and sheep.

ICONOGRAPHY:

Dainichi, his hair in a top-knot, is enthroned on a lotus. He wears the crown and jewelry of royalty. One hand forms gestures of blessing (mudra).

In March 2008, a twelfth-century wooden statue of Dainichi was auctioned for $14,377,000 by Christie’s New York auction house, setting a record for Japanese art.

ATTRIBUTE:

A medicine jar

PLANET:

Sun

Direction:

Southwest

SEE ALSO:

• Buddha

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by :Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.