Deva (ten) or guardian deity
Biku Daikoku
比丘大黒
One of the Six Daikoku, it is described as being called Biku Daikoku because it has the form of a monk.
This introduction is based on materials from Shōhōin (Tobi Fudō). It is summarized within the scope of the beliefs and traditions those materials convey, and does not present explanations or customs common to all schools, shrines, and temples.
English pages are the site’s own translations of its Japanese pages. The sources cited are in Japanese. 日本語で読む
The name and role of Biku Daikoku
One of the Six Daikoku, it is described as being called Biku Daikoku because it has the form of a monk. Its honjibutsu is said to be Daimanishu Nyorai, and it is introduced that according to the Daikoku Sutra, Daimanishu Nyorai appeared in the Saha world as Daikoku.
Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院・飛不動尊 正宝院・飛不動尊 正宝院
Tracing its form and traditions
It is described as holding a small mallet in its right hand and a sword in its left. The explanation that Daimanishu Nyorai appeared through the power of unhindered action is recorded as being based on the Daikoku Sutra.
Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院・飛不動尊 正宝院・飛不動尊 正宝院
Faith in Daikokuten, which developed in many ways
The Six Daikoku are six forms introduced as the family and followers of Daikokuten. In Daikokuten, the character of a stern god who protects Buddhism overlaps with faith connected with food and good fortune. Its form changed across eras and regions, and in Japan its fusion with Ōkuninushi no Mikoto can also be seen.
Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院
From guardian of the kitchen to various forms
Shōhōin notes that Daikokuten was enshrined in dining halls and kitchens, and that as the faith spread, forms such as the three-faced Daikoku, the Six Daikoku and the married-couple Daikoku arose. The Daikokuten of the Seven Lucky Gods, holding rice bales and a small mallet, is not its only form. The appearance of each of the Six Daikoku shows this varied development.
Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院
Related kami and buddhas
Sources (in Japanese)
- 飛不動尊 正宝院「仏様の世界：比丘大黒」（2026-10-14 確認）
- 飛不動尊 正宝院「仏様の世界：目次」（2026-10-14 確認）
- 飛不動尊 正宝院「仏様の世界：六大黒」（2026-10-14 確認）