Their cult was introduced from China into Japan by the followers of the Shingon sect. Initially considered as esoteric deities, they were popularized, probably from the thirteenth century, the monks ascribing to them the power of protecting humans against the evil influences coming, according to an ancient Chinese belief, from the Kimon (in the north-east) or the 'gate of demons'.
Among these kings of magic knowledge, five great Vidyarajas are distinguished (called Godai Myo-o or Godai-son in Japan) corresponding to the five Jinas. According to the Ninno-kyo Mandara ('the mandala of the Good Kings'), the five great Vidyarajas are:
1) The center, Achalanatha, corresponding to Vairochana. 2) In the east, Trailokyavijaya, corresponding to Akshobhya. 3) In the south, Kundali, corresponding to Ratnasambhava. 4) In the west, Yamantaka, corresponding to Amitabha. 5) In the north, Vajrayaksha (Vajrapani), corresponding to Amoghasiddhi.
Achalanatha also known as Fudo-Myo-O in Japanese, and Budong Fo in Chinese, is believed to be a manifestation of the Dhyani-Buddha Vairochana for the purpose of combating evil. He is believed to be the chief of the five Vidya Rajas.
His appearance is fierce and angry, face menacing, his brows knit together, and expression one of grimace. He is described in many sutras and particularly in the Mahavairochana-sutra. His symbol, the vertically held sword aids him to combat the 'three poisons': greed, anger and ignorance. In the left hand he holds a lasso (pasha) to catch and bind the evil forces and to prevent them from doing harm. Achalanatha, having taken a vow to prolong the life of the faithful by six months and to give them an unshakable resolution to conquer the forces of evil, is sometimes invoked in this respect as the 'prolonger of life'.
How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?
Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.
Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.
In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth.
Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.
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