Deva (ten) or guardian deity
Kisshōten
吉祥天
Kisshōten is a deity said to derive from the Indian goddess Shrī Lakshmī. She is also called Daikisshō Tennyo, Kudokuten and other names, and is represented as a goddess holding a jewel. There are differing accounts of her relationship with Bishamonten, such as being his younger sister or his consort.
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
Kisshōten, expressing beauty, happiness and abundance
Kisshōten is a deity said to derive from the Indian goddess Shrī Lakshmī. She is also called Daikisshō Tennyo, Kudokuten and other names, and is represented as a goddess holding a jewel. There are differing accounts of her relationship with Bishamonten, such as being his younger sister or his consort.
Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院
Kichijō keka, praying for peace in the new year
According to Yakushi-ji's guide, Kisshōten has been revered as a goddess of beauty and happiness at the New Year shushōe service. She is also cherished as the principal image of a service in which people reflect on their own deeds and pray for peace in the new year.
Source: 薬師寺東京別院
A New Year service praying for the safety of the household and for good fortune
Yakushi-ji Tokyo Betsuin explains that at the shushōe service, whose principal image is a statue of Kisshōten, prayers are offered for peace in the land, good fortune and the safety of the household. She is a deity who is not only a symbol of beauty and happiness, but also has a role as a principal image to whom people pray that society and the household may be peaceful in the new year.
Source: 薬師寺東京別院
Mantra (in Japanese, as written in the sources)
おん まかしりやえい そわか。
Source: 飛不動尊 正宝院
Shown as written in the Japanese sources. This site does not set how or how many times to recite it.