Agyo and Ungyo... or simply "Nioh"

[winedoc]

Ok, these two gents are everywhere in Japan with heavy concentration in ancient cities like Nara, Kyoto, and Kamakura. Most likely, when you go to a Buhddist temple in Japan, before you enter the big gate, you will be greeted by these two gents...

 

I am talking the "Nioh" also known as "Kongo Rikishi", or as "Benevolent Kings". When describing the pair, one would use "Nioh", but the one with mouth open is "Agyo" and the one with mouth closed is the "Ungyo" (more on this later)

 

These two originated in India. It is believed these two protected Buhhda as he traveled and preach. Overtimes, these two become the "patron saints" of pilgrims. As Buddhism spread to Japan, these two remain as "protectors" and many refer them as "Door Gods". One of the most famous pair is made of wood in 1206 and you still can see them at Nara's Todaiji (Remember these two, my fellow Japanese tour memebers??)

 

Here is my photos of the Agyo (with mouth open)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/winedoc/Japan%20Trip%202006/tn_DSC_0081.jpg

 

and the Ungyo (with mouth closed)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/winedoc/Japan%20Trip%202006/tn_DSC_0082.jpg

 

So, what's the meaning of all these open and close mouth business you asked? "Agyo" is with mouth as in saying "Ahh". He symbolizes "opening", "Birth", represents overt power, baring his teeth and raising his fist in action.

 

The "Ungyo" is with mouth closed as in saying "Mmm", and symbolizes "closure", "death", represents latent might, holding his mouth tightly closed and waiting with both arms tensed but lowered.

 

OK, now the pen...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/winedoc/LA%20Show/tn_DSC08686.jpg

 

Agyo on the cap with mouth open, arms slightly raised

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/winedoc/LA%20Show/tn_DSC08687.jpg

 

Ungyo on the barrel with mouth shut, arms slightly lowered

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/winedoc/LA%20Show/tn_DSC08688.jpg

 

Of course you must have lotus on section

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/winedoc/LA%20Show/tn_DSC08689.jpg

 

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/winedoc/LA%20Show/tn_DSC08690.jpg

 

The two together

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/winedoc/LA%20Show/tn_DSC08691.jpg

 

Hope you enjoy the "tour"

 

Best,

 

Kevin

[TheNobleSavage]

Most excellent, Kevin!!!

 

TNS