Disciple or founding teacher
Zenzai Dōji
善財童子
Zenzai Dōji is a seeker of the way who, in the story of the Kegon-kyō, visits various teachers under Monju's guidance. In the group of five Monju figures at Abe Monjuin, Zenzai is shown being guided by Monju. The journey of learning from people is itself depicted as practice.
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
A youth who visits many teachers to learn the teachings
Zenzai Dōji is a seeker of the way who, in the story of the Kegon-kyō, visits various teachers under Monju's guidance. In the group of five Monju figures at Abe Monjuin, Zenzai is shown being guided by Monju. The journey of learning from people is itself depicted as practice.
Source: 安倍文殊院
A journey to visit fifty-three spiritual teachers
Zenzai seeks the teachings by visiting fifty-three spiritual teachers (zenchishiki), including not only monks but people of different positions. Zenchishiki are good teachers and friends who lead one to the Buddhist path. It is cherished as a story of learning Monju's wisdom through encounters in the world.
Source: 安倍文殊院
Related kami and buddhas
Sources (in Japanese)
- 飛不動尊 正宝院「仏様の世界：善財童子」（2026-10-14 確認）
- 飛不動尊 正宝院「仏様の世界：目次」（2026-10-14 確認）
- 安倍文殊院「寺宝と文化財」（2026-10-15 確認）