Pindola, Hall of Great Buddha, Naru, Japan
Binzuru (Pindola Bharadvaja) Wood, Edo Period, 18th Century.Hall of the Great Buddha, Nara, Japan
Pindola was one of the sixteen arahats, who were disciples of the buddha. Pindola is said to have excelled in the mastery of occult powers. It is commonly believed in Japan that when a person rubs a part of the image of Binzuru and then rubs the corresponding part of his own body, his ailment there will disappear.
Now, I didn't actually see anyone rubbing it while I was watching, but it seems clear that a piece of wood at the front has been replaced and is very shiny. I wondered whether it was a case of being the most accesible part to touch or whether it says something about the problems faced by Japanese men, (or tourists in general)
Pindola, Hall of Great Buddha, Naru, Japan
Binzuru (Pindola Bharadvaja) Wood, Edo Period, 18th Century.Hall of the Great Buddha, Nara, Japan
Pindola was one of the sixteen arahats, who were disciples of the buddha. Pindola is said to have excelled in the mastery of occult powers. It is commonly believed in Japan that when a person rubs a part of the image of Binzuru and then rubs the corresponding part of his own body, his ailment there will disappear.
Now, I didn't actually see anyone rubbing it while I was watching, but it seems clear that a piece of wood at the front has been replaced and is very shiny. I wondered whether it was a case of being the most accesible part to touch or whether it says something about the problems faced by Japanese men, (or tourists in general)