Buddhist statues are deeply tied to Japanese culture, shaping everything from our values to how we view life and death. Their influence even appears in everyday language. Here are some common proverbs related to Buddhism:

“Even a Buddha gets angry after three insults.”
(Even the most patient person has their limits.)

“Creating a Buddha statue without putting in the soul.”
(Things that look good on the outside are meaningless without substance.)

“Ignorance is Buddha.”
(Sometimes, it’s better not to know.)

Buddhist statues originated from the teachings of Buddhism. As the religion spread from India through China and Japan, ancient Indian deities were gradually adopted into the Buddhist pantheon. While early statues mostly depicted the historical Buddha (Shakyamuni), over 2,000 years they diversified into countless forms.

Today, Buddhist statues in Japan are categorized into four main ranks:

1. Nyorai (Tathagata)

2. Bosatsu (Bodhisattva)

3. Myoo (Wisdom Kings)

4. Ten (Deities/Celestials)

You can often identify their role based on their appearance—what they hold in their hands, their clothing, and facial expressions.

Nyorai – Enlightened Buddhas

The highest-ranked statues, Nyorai represent beings who have reached enlightenment. They have a distinct curled hairstyle called rahotsu and wear very simple robes. Their hand gestures (mudras) and items convey meaning—for example, Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha) holds a jar containing an endless supply of healing medicine.

Bosatsu – Compassionate Helpers

Bodhisattvas serve under Nyorai, helping people reach enlightenment. They’re elegant, dressed like ancient Indian royalty with crowns, jewelry, and fine robes.

Famous examples:

• Juichimen Kannon (Eleven-Headed Kannon): Faces in all directions to save all beings.

• Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon): Has many arms and eyes to help and protect countless people. (“Thousand” here means “infinite.”)

Myoo – Fierce Protectors

These statues look angry on purpose! Myoo follow Dainichi Nyorai’s commands, fighting evil with burning passion. Most have wild hair, flaming halos, swords, and ropes—symbols of power and protection.

Ten – Heavenly Beings

Originally Indian gods, these figures took on Buddhist roles. Their duties vary widely. Well-known examples include:

• Benzaiten – Brings blessings in music and speech.

• Daikokuten – God of good fortune and business.

Other “Ten” include temple guardians like Niō, Emma (King of Hell), and the Four Heavenly Kings, dressed as warriors.

Next time you visit a Japanese temple, take a moment to look closely at the statues — they’re more than just decorations. Each one has a story, a role, and even a rank.