Byakue Kannon

The name and role of Byakue Kannon

One of the Thirty-Three Kannon, it is described as being named from the Sanskrit meaning "clad in white robes." Unlike the mood of its pictures, it is introduced as a buddha with strong esoteric elements.

Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院・飛不動尊 正宝院・飛不動尊 正宝院

Kannon's compassion, saving by changing form

The images of the Thirty-Three Kannon are associated with the thirty-three manifestations, the teaching that Kannon changes form to suit each person in order to save them. However, the thirty-three names in this list, such as Yōryū Kannon and Suigetsu Kannon, are not identified one by one with the thirty-three manifestations named in the sutra. Various beliefs and pictorial expressions from India, China and Japan overlap in them.

Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院・浅草寺

Image sources that hand down thirty-three forms

Shōhōin introduces this group based on the Butsuzō Zui, published in the Edo period. The names express attributes, dwelling places, gestures, saving works and so on. Some have individual origins told about them, while others center on form and name, so not every figure necessarily has its own story or meaning for prayer.

Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院

Compassion that listens to suffering and leads to peace

Sensō-ji describes Kannon as a buddha who receives people's voices, removes suffering and gives ease. Turning one's heart toward salvation from hardship is an entry point to understanding faith in Kannon. This is a description of the compassion shared by Kannon in general, not a list that sets particular benefits for each of the thirty-three images.

Source: 浅草寺

Related shrines and temples

• Daikanmitsu-jiIzumi Ward, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture

Related kami and buddhas

• Sanjūsan Kannon (the Thirty-Three Kannon)三十三観音