The Staff of Two Heads
History, Heritage and Religion

for further reading: Jintojo

A staff surmounted by a human head (sometimes two), meant to symbolize the impermanence of life. The Jintojo is especially associated with Enmaten (aka Emma-o), the most important of the 10 Kings of Hell, who is sometimes shown holding this object. Enmaten is associated with long life and protection from illness and misfortune.

In rare cases, artwork of Emma-o and the 10 Kings of Hell includes a staff surmounted with two human heads (one male, one female). This object is known as the Dandato. The two heads assist the kings during the trials of the deceased. The male head, known as Kaguhana (nose that sniffs misdeeds), is shown with mouth open, for he is reporting the misdeeds of the deceased. The female head, known as Mirume (eyes that see hidden faults), is shown with mouth closed.

Relevance to Inuyasha

In the series, Sesshomaru's retainer, Jaken uses a weapon known as the "Staff of Two Heads". Originally the staff was used to to search for the black pearl which granted entrance into Inuyasha's father's tomb. Even though Inuyasha is a work of fiction, the Staff of Two Heads actually does exist. It can be found on display at the Kamakura Museum of National Treasure.