travelswithalice

December 05, 2012

 

A thousand and one buddhas

I like looking at things fresh, through my own eyes, not through some guidebook writer's. Sometimes this means I miss out on things I should've paid more attention to. But most times, the experience is clearer,  nicer.

Seeing all those ancient buddhas lined up shoulder to shoulder. as far as I could see, down the length of the long, low wooden building was an unexpected delight. I had no idea what I was walking into, just that it was an ancient buddhist temple, a national treasure. I loved the look of the building. It's really just a room, a very long room in ancient dark wood, hushed except for the shuffling of bare feet and the low murmur of the guides and teachers shepherding tourist groups, mostly old, mostly Japanese, and students in school uniforms.

Pity, taking photos was strictly forbidden, as numerous cautionary signs reminded the faithful every three feet or so. No photos to be taken of the sacred Buddha, cameras are to be inspected, photographic equipment will be confiscated, and so on.

A thousand Buddhas, nearly identical in face and body, shone in gold, bright rays radiating from their heads. Standing guard before them was a row of lesser deities, bodies and faces animated in ferocious poses, blackened with soot and dirt.

In the center of this hallowed assembly was a giant seated Buddha, hands and fingers held in the classic stance of quiet and blessing. I lit four candles for Mommy and Daddy, and Mum and Dad Jones. Hedging my bets?











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