Other figure
Jurōjin
寿老人
Jurōjin is worshipped as a deity of long life who derives from the South Pole Star (Nankyokusei). Among the Seven Lucky Gods (Shichifukujin), he is described as carrying the virtue of lifespan and long life, and he is depicted as a white-haired old man, or accompanied by a crane or a deer.
This introduction is based on materials published by shrines, temples, and schools, starting with Shōhōin. 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
Jurōjin, who governs the human lifespan
Jurōjin is worshipped as a deity of long life who derives from the South Pole Star (Nankyokusei). Among the Seven Lucky Gods (Shichifukujin), he is described as carrying the virtue of lifespan and long life, and he is depicted as a white-haired old man, or accompanied by a crane or a deer.
Source: 天台宗
Closeness to Fukurokuju, and differences in form
Fukurokuju and Jurōjin are both linked with Chinese faith in the stars and have similar origins. Shōhōin lists each of them as a separate member of the Seven Lucky Gods. Their respective images have been handed down through features such as a long head, a staff, and animals.
Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院・飛不動尊 正宝院
One of the Seven Lucky Gods, prayed to for lifespan and long life
The Tendai school introduces Jurōjin as a deity governing lifespan, the South Pole Star made divine. Among the Seven Lucky Gods, he is the one to whom wishes for long life are brought. His form as a white-haired old man accompanied by a crane or a deer is also a clue to recognizing him.
Source: 天台宗
Mantra (in Japanese, as written in the sources)
おん ばざら ゆせい そわか
Source: 真言宗 金毘羅密寺
Shown as written in the Japanese sources. This site does not set how or how many times to recite it.