Content Number:20592
A Jizo (guardian deity of children) statue that "is sure to grant one wish" is enshrined in the grounds of Fukugan Temple, hence the name Ichigan Temple (literally, "One-wish Temple"). The Jizo statue is said to enshrine the sixth priest Tetsuryodoki-osho and is called "Ichigan Jizo". The priest knew the hour of his death and, three days before he died, summoned the villagers to bid them farewell, saying "I want you to make a Jizo after I die and enshrine it in a place where many people pass by. If you do this I promise that I will grant one wish per person." We are told that he passed away seated in the main hall of the temple and left the following deathbed poem: "Today my long imitation of a Tathagata comes to an end". It is said that if you make an offering of sake and mustard (a favourite of his) you will surely have one wish granted, and so the statue is also known as "Karashi Jizo" ("the Mustard Jizo").
Nakahechi: Historical sites & nature
Back to gSelect Categoryh
Back to the Home Page
(C) Wakayama Prefecture