Deva (ten) or guardian deity
Daibenzaiten
大弁財天
Daibenzaiten is introduced by Shōhōin as a name and image related to Benzaiten. In this entry, the distinguishing feature is a two-armed form holding a sword and a jewel. Benzaiten has a character connected with water, music, and wisdom, and a character as a deva who protects the Buddhist teachings.
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 many forms of Benzaiten: Daibenzaiten
Daibenzaiten is introduced by Shōhōin as a name and image related to Benzaiten. In this entry, the distinguishing feature is a two-armed form holding a sword and a jewel. Benzaiten has a character connected with water, music, and wisdom, and a character as a deva who protects the Buddhist teachings.
Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院・竹生島 宝厳寺
Background: the arts, good fortune, and protection of the teachings
Faith in Benzaiten spread to wishes for music and the performing arts, wisdom, and abundance in daily life. At Hōgonji on Chikubushima as well, people pray for progress in the performing arts and prosperity in business. Her various workings are also expressed in forms that differ in the objects held and the number of arms.
Source: 竹生島 宝厳寺・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：大弁財天」（2026-10-14 確認）
- 飛不動尊 正宝院「仏様の世界：目次」（2026-10-14 確認）
- 竹生島 宝厳寺「宝厳寺探訪：本堂・弁才天」（2026-10-15 確認）
- 竹生島 宝厳寺「年間行事」（2026-10-15 確認）