Butsudan
History, Heritage & Religion

for further reading: Shinon Buddhist Intl. Institute: Jizo Bosatsu

Jizo is the Japanese name of this Bodhisattva (A Bodhisattva is one who devotes his or her life to freeing others from suffering. Bodhisattvas are not worshipped, but are an inspiration to awaken the qualities of an enlightened being that are inherent in everyone), who was also known in ancient India as Kshitigarbha Bodhisattva, guardian of the great Earth.

Jizo Bodhisattva has a special affinity for infants and children. Jizo festivals in Japan are family celebrations. Jizo temples are decorated with red and white lanterns, and there are games and food especially for children. Images of Jizo Bodhisattva also are used during ceremonies of remembrance for children who have died. Small statues of Jizo are often seen by the side of the road in Japan, sometimes in groups and often with a cloth or bib around the image's neck. Kind passerbys often leave a stone beside the statue to honor it and the children it represents.

Relevance to Ranma 1/2

After being rejected by Shampoo yet again, Mousse gives his scarf to a Jizo statue. The statue comes to life to try and return the favor to kind-hearted Mousse.