Learn About Byodoji
How to Use This Guide
Start with the overall picture, then move into history, faith, and story in the order that feels right.
There is no single correct entrance into Byodoji. You can begin with the temple's history, with devotion to its principal Buddha Yakushi Nyorai, or with the story of the hakoguruma preserved here.
This page keeps the pathways simple and readable, so you can move through the temple's background without distraction.
Main Reading Paths
Three core articles for getting to know Byodoji.
History
History of Byodoji Temple
Trace how devotion to Yakushi Nyorai has been handed down through the history of Byodoji.
Read
Faith
Principal Yakushi Nyorai
Follow the origins, vows, and living devotion surrounding the temple's principal Buddha.
Read
Faith
The Eleven-Faced Kannon of the Jibutsudo
Follow the Eleven-Faced Kannon of the jibutsudo, and Byodoji's two titles, Iō-in and Nikkoin.
Read
Story
A Hakoguruma for a Parent and Child
Read how the healing power of Yakushi Nyorai was remembered in modern times through the story of a hakoguruma.
Read
Faith
Vaiśravaṇa at Byodoji
Follow the Bishamonten homa offered on the 1st of each month and the prayer for fortune and victory.
Read
Faith
Kṣitigarbha at Byodoji
Follow the Jizo homa offered on the 24th of each month and the prayer for children and the departed.
Read
Faith
Acala at Byodoji
Follow Byodoji's Fudo devotion and the Fudo homa offered on the 28th of each month.
Read
Read from the Source
A modern-language guide to the temple's traditional origin record.