Daikokuten, literally the Great Black One, is a prominent deity revered in the Japanese Buddhist tradition. As an emanation of Mahakala, a wrathful Buddhist protector, he embodies the qualities of protection, abundance, and generosity. While Daikokuten is primarily associated with esoteric Buddhism, particularly the Shingon and Tendai schools, his influence extends beyond these traditions as well.
The usual iconography of Daikokuten portrays him standing or sitting on bales of rice, symbolizing his role as a granter of wealth, prosperity, and sustenance. In his right hand, Daikokuten holds a golden mallet, symbolizing spiritual power and the ability to overcome obstacles. His right hand holds a treasure sack representing wealth and the fulfillment of desires. There have been many versions from various artists which we felt were too liberal when it comes to artistic representation. We went through volumes of books on iconography and visited numerous temples in Japan to find the most orthodox record of how his image should be made and eventually found a profound connection when we stood in front of the Daikokuten shrine at Senryuji, Kyoto. The look and posture of his image was so vivid and alive and we told ourselves that we must make this available for people who are serious in propitiating Daikokuten and those who would want the image to be made from the best materials in adherence to traditional guidelines regarding his iconography and the hand gestures he should be depicted with.
The walking form of Mahakala at Senryuji conveys a sense of dynamic energy and readiness for action. It signifies his vigilance and protective nature, actively guarding the Buddhist Dharma and the practitioner against obstacles and negative forces, and yet bestowing wealth from his treasure bag. Typically depicted with black or dark blue skin, representing his association with darkness, mystery, and the primordial state of emptiness, we decided to use ethically sourced Sri Lankan black ebony wood to make the statues and have them coated with Japanese urushi lacquer. The black color also signifies his ability to absorb and transform negativity and obstacles. Devotees usually engage in a dedicated practice which involves the recitation of mantra to invoke his blessings and cultivate the qualities he embodies, thus allowing practitioners to connect with his divine energy and receive his protection and wealth blessings, not merely for personal gain but for the well-being of oneself and others.
By aligning with Daikokuten's compassionate power, practitioners strive to cultivate generosity, gratitude, and an abundance mindset.It is customary to display a statue or image of Daikokuten in a prominent place, such as a household shrine or meditation space, as a reminder of his presence and the qualities he embodies. Regular offerings, such as rice, fruits, and incense, are made to express gratitude and seek his blessings. Daikokuten's popularity extends beyond formal Buddhist institutions. His imagery and symbolism have become intertwined with local folklore and Shinto practices. This reflect the syncretic nature of Japanese religious traditions, where elements of Buddhism and Shintoism coexist and blend harmoniously. Daikokuten's veneration is not limited to temples or official religious settings. Many households in Japan display statues or images of Daikokuten for good luck too. The widespread popularity of Daikokuten in various Japanese Buddhist traditions can be attributed to his association with material well-being, abundance, and overcoming obstacles. His iconography, symbolizing prosperity and protection, resonates with both religious and cultural sensibilities, making him a beloved and accessible, benevolent yet powerful deity for people seeking blessings in their daily lives.
It's important to note that the correct pronunciation and intonation of these mantras are significant for their effective use. As mantras hold sacred vibrations, it is ideal to receive proper instruction and guidance from qualified teachers or practitioners who are familiar with the specific practice.
The relationship between wealth or material well-being and the concept of renunciation can be nuanced in Buddhism. While renunciation is emphasized as a spiritual practice to detach oneself from attachment and craving, Buddhism offers a balanced perspective on wealth and material well-being. Buddhism teaches the importance of cultivating a non-attached mindset towards wealth and material possessions. Renunciation involves letting go of the grasping and clinging mentality that often accompanies wealth. It is crucial to recognize that material possessions are impermanent and cannot provide lasting happiness or fulfillment. Understanding the transient nature of wealth helps develop a right view and diminishes attachment. Buddhism encourages the practice of generosity (dana) as a means to cultivate compassion and reduce self-centeredness. When one possesses wealth, it can be viewed as an opportunity to practice generosity and support the well-being of others. By using wealth in skillful ways, such as contributing to charitable causes or helping those in need, Buddhists can transform wealth into a positive force that benefits society. Wealth should be acquired and used in alignment with ethical conduct and right livelihood. Buddhists are encouraged to earn their wealth through honest means, without causing harm to others or engaging in exploitative practices. By ensuring that wealth is acquired and utilized in ethical ways, Buddhists can avoid creating negative karmic consequences.
Buddhism emphasizes the cultivation of contentment and inner wealth as essential elements of spiritual practice. True happiness and well-being arise from inner qualities such as wisdom, compassion, and mental clarity, rather than external possessions. By developing these inner qualities, one can achieve happiness and find contentment. Ultimately, the key lies in one's attitude and relationship towards wealth. Buddhists are encouraged to view wealth as a means rather than an end, using it skillfully to support their spiritual practice, benefit others, and cultivate inner qualities. By maintaining a non-attached and mindful approach, wealth can be regarded as a tool for personal and societal well-being without conflicting with the core principles of spiritual progress.