Bodhisattva (bosatsu)
Chigo Monju
児文殊
This is a name for Monju Bosatsu depicted in the form of a young child. Shōhōin explains that a pure teaching, free of attachment, is entrusted to the form of a chigo (child). It is presented less as a separate buddha of an independent lineage than as an image expressing the character of Monju.
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
Monju Bosatsu depicted in the form of a chigo
This is a name for Monju Bosatsu depicted in the form of a young child. Shōhōin explains that a pure teaching, free of attachment, is entrusted to the form of a chigo (child). It is presented less as a separate buddha of an independent lineage than as an image expressing the character of Monju.
Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院
Connection with faith in Monju
Monju symbolizes wisdom and draws the faith of people who pray for success in study and for wisdom. Images accompanied by a lion and images guiding the youth Zenzai Dōji have also been handed down, and Chigo Monju can be seen as one of these varied expressions.
Source: 安倍文殊院・飛不動尊 正宝院