Also known as Vaisravana or Bishamonten, Bisamonten is a deity in Japanese Buddhism and a prominent figure in the pantheon of the Seven Lucky Gods. He is often depicted as a fierce warrior, adorned in armor and holding a spear and a pagoda.

Originally from Hinduism and Buddhism in India, Bisamonten was introduced to Japan during the 6th century. In Japan, he is revered as the guardian of the north and is associated with wealth, fortune, and protection. He is believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits, bring good luck, and grant financial success.

Bisamonten is often depicted with a stern expression and an imposing posture, symbolizing his role as a protector. He is known for his integrity, discipline, and adherence to moral principles. As the god of wealth, he is also associated with proper governance and righteous leadership.

In Japanese folklore and religious practices, Bisamonten is widely venerated and worshiped. Many temples and shrines throughout Japan dedicate altars and statues to him. His followers often seek his blessings for prosperity, success in business endeavors, and protection against misfortune. Bisamonten’s significance extends beyond religious contexts. He is also a popular figure in Japanese art, literature, and popular culture. His image can be found in various forms, including sculptures, paintings, and talismans.

Weapons

Bisamonten is commonly depicted holding two main weapons: a spear and a pagoda (yes the building). These weapons, the spear and the pagoda, symbolize both Bisamonten’s fierce warrior aspect and his role as a wise and knowledgeable deity. They reflect his power to ward off evil, protect his followers, and provide them with the guidance and wisdom necessary for a prosperous and virtuous life.

• Spear: Known as a Vajra Spear, this weapon represents his warrior nature and symbolizes his ability to defeat evil forces. The vajra spear is believed to possess the indestructible power of a diamond, able to pierce through obstacles and protect against negative influences.
• Pagoda: This symbol, sometimes considered a weapon of Bisamonten, represents wisdom and knowledge. Bisamonten is often depicted carrying a miniature pagoda in his hand or on his shoulder. The pagoda is a multi-tiered tower-like structure commonly found in East Asian architecture and is associated with Buddhist temples. In the context of Bisamonten, the pagoda represents his role as a guardian and protector of the Buddhist teachings, as well as his ability to grant wisdom and spiritual enlightenment to his devotees. It is also considered to be the divine treasure house, the contents of which he guards and gives away on occasion.

Family

In Japanese mythology and Buddhism, Bisamonten is not typically associated with a family in the traditional sense. He is primarily depicted and revered as an individual deity rather than being part of a specific divine family lineage. Within the larger Buddhist pantheon, Bisamonten is considered one of the Four Heavenly Kings (Shitennō) along with three other deities: Jikokuten, Zōchōten, and Kōmokuten. These four deities are often depicted together and are known as the protectors of the Buddhist faith and the guardians of the four cardinal directions. While Bisamonten is not specifically portrayed as having familial relationships with these other deities, they are often grouped together in Buddhist iconography and worship and might be loosely considered to fulfill siblingesque roles.

Pivotal Moment

While Bisamonten may be mentioned or referenced in various Buddhist scriptures and tales, he does not have a central myth or legend that defines his character or highlights a particular pivotal moment in his mythology. Instead, his importance lies in his ongoing role as a symbol of wealth, fortune, and protection, as well as his representation of disciplined leadership and adherence to moral principles.