Japan: Fudo Myoo (Achala) General Introduction
Achala (Fudo-myoo) Masterworks & National TreasuresFudo Myoo, or Achala Vidyaraja (immovable knowledge king) in Sanskrit, plays a significant role in Shingon Buddhism. Founded by Kobo Daishi in the early 9th century Shingon is a major school of Buddhism in Japan that adheres to Vajrayana or esoteric Buddhist tradition following the tantra literature of India. In the Shingon tradition, Fudo Myoo is a prominent deity for removing obstacles and protection. He is also one of the thirteen deities which preside over the memorial services corresponding to certain dates post death. In general Fudo is associated with the 28th day of every month and to have an affinity with those born in the year of the rooster.
In the iconography of Shingon Buddhism, Fudo Myoo is often depicted as a wrathful deity, embodying determination and unyielding energy to help individuals overcome obstacles and distractions that can lead away from the path of enlightenment. His characteristics serve as symbolic reminders of these principles. He holds a vajra-hilted sword in his right hand, symbolizing wisdom cutting through ignorance, and a rope-like lasso in the left hand to bind and control the forces of delusion, ego and ignorance. His wrathful, often frowning and grimaced face symbolizes his defiance against evil forces and his determination to assist all beings in achieving enlightenment.
Fudo Myoo is also often depicted surrounded by fire representing wisdom, symbolizing the purification of the mind. The flames engulfing him represent the burning away of desires and attachments, which are seen as impediments to the achievement of enlightenment. In many representations the rock upon which he is either sitting or standing symbolizes his immovability in the face of distraction and temptation, underlining his commitment to the Buddhist path.
In terms of hierarchy, in Shingon Buddhism, Fudo Myoo is regarded as a manifestation of Dainichi Nyorai (Vairochana Buddha), the central deity of Shingon, and represents the cosmic aspect of Buddha's enlightenment and a universal form of Shakyamuni Buddha. This means Fudo Myoo plays an important role in the mandalas of Shingon Buddhism, serving as a direct link to the universal enlightenment of Dainichi Nyorai.
In conclusion, Fudo Myoo is an embodiment of the Buddhist teachings, representing their enduring and unyielding nature, and his image is used as a focal point for meditation and the attainment of spiritual insight. His representation and the symbolism associated with him serve to encapsulate and communicate many of the key teachings of Shingon Buddhism.
Shinzo Shiratori, 6-2023
