Have you noticed the unique faces of the Jizo statues here? This is Kesho Jizo. It means Makeup Jizo.
Kesho Jizo is a special type of Jizo Bodhisattva. Jizo is a beloved figure in Japanese Buddhism. He is seen as a protector of children and travelers.
O-Jizo-sama is like a mother to us. We ask for help. We implore it as we would a mother. Of all the deities, it is the one we feel closest to.
Now look closer. Notice the makeup on these statues. This is not just any decoration. It is a special tradition. People paint the faces of Jizo. They give him new red bibs or coats.
Why do they do this? It is a way to show respect and care. Jizo statues are often dressed in red bibs. Red represents safety and protection. Local women often take care of Jizo statues. They provide hand-knitted hats and hand-sewn bibs.
This practice is related to gaining merit. Merit is important in Buddhism. Dressing Jizo gives people a chance to interact with him.
Jizo’s role has changed over time. In the 1970s, a new ceremony began. It is called mizuko kuyo. This ceremony is for aborted fetuses. It is performed at local temples. As part of the ceremony, a stone Jizo statue is dressed in children’s clothing. It is then placed on the temple grounds.
There are many ways to celebrate Jizo. In Kyoto, more than 5000 Jizo statues stand along the roads. People set up small stalls. Children recite long rosaries. They play in the stalls. Red lanterns are hung. They say Hail to Jizo Bosatsu. Children eat food of red colors.
Jizo is also the overseer of muen botoke. These are the unconnected dead. They are forgotten graves. They are the marginally departed. Large groups of Jizo statues are called sentai jizo. This means one thousand Jizos.
Jizo may appear in many forms. He is ready to help whenever he is needed. Nearly every community in Japan has its own Jizo statue. Each one has its own name. Each has its own characteristics.
Agonashi Jizo heals toothaches. Doroashi Jizo helps rice farmers. The Miso Jizo is a patron of scholars. The Koyasu Jizo assists women in labor. There is even a Shogun Jizo in armor. He protects soldiers in battle. There are easily a hundred or more special Jizos throughout Japan.
So when you see Kesho Jizo remember this. It is a sign of deep respect. It is a way to connect with a beloved protector. It is a beautiful tradition in Kyoto.