Jurinin Temple Main Hall: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Niche

JAPAN, Nara; Kamakura period

The niche is constructed from sixty granite blocks and has been listed an Important Cultural Property.
Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, measuring 174 cm high, is surrounded by a mandorla and a nimbus and stands in the center. The figure’s right hand opens in varada (wish-granting) mudra while the left hand carries a wish-fulfilling jewel. Maitreya, at 148.5 cm, stands to the right of the Bodhisattva, carrying his attribute of a pagoda, while Sakyamuni Buddha, 148 cm in height, stands on the left with his hands in the abhaya (fearlessness) and varada mudras. Both figures stand on lotus pedestals and are in mid-relief. The Aksobhya mantra is carved over the lintel. The association of these three figures is based on the belief that between the time that Sakyamuni entered nirvana and before Maitreya appears in this world, it is Ksitigarbha who comes to the aid of suffering beings. There are line carvings of other Bodhisattvas, the Ten Kings of Hell and the Four Heavenly Kings, on the side walls and pillars in addition to the three main images.