You might be wondering why a simple stone statue, seemingly plain and unassuming, draws so many devoted followers. This is the Yata Jizo-son, a sacred figure that stands tall, nearly two meters high, in the Yatadera temple in Kyoto. The story goes that the Yatadera temple was founded in the early Heian period, as a branch temple of the Yatadera still standing in Yamato province. Throughout the years, the temple changed location and finally landed where it stands today, surrounded by a vast forest. Mankei, through deep meditation, had visions of Jizo and, inspired by these visions, carved the large Jizo statue. It stands as a powerful symbol of compassion, standing between the fiery realm of hell and the world of the living. Jizo is believed to be a protector of the innocent, guiding lost souls to the afterlife. This belief explains the flames that are carved in front of the statue. They symbolize the flames of hell, a terrifying place that the Jizo safeguards the souls from. The Yatadera temple also houses a bell, known as the Sending Bell, which is rung to help send the spirits of departed people to the afterlife. Its sound reverberates through the forest, aiding the souls along their journey. The Jizo-son is more than just a stone statue; it is a reminder that life and death are intertwined, and that even in the face of suffering, compassion and hope prevail.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to