When you hear about a magnificent Buddha statue designated as an important cultural property by the national government, you might imagine that 'everything is perfectly calculated and enveloped in a sacred aura.'
However, visiting 'Kamiumanai Yakushido' in Aizubashiyama, Fukushima Prefecture, might change that image a bit.
This is an important ancient temple guarding the western side of the 'Five Yakushi of Aizu,' but if you closely observe the enshrined Buddhas, you might want to point out, 'Huh? Isn't this part a bit rough?' as there are many human-like, mysterious points hidden.
This time, we will guide you on an academic mystery tour that reveals the "hidden faces" of the sculptors, which cannot be understood through lofty art explanations alone.
[Mystery 1] Why is only the "foot" of Yakushi Nyorai so flat?
As you proceed deeper into the hall, you will be greeted by the magnificent and imposing "Wooden Sitting Statue of Yakushi Nyorai (National Important Cultural Property)" standing at a height of 1.83 meters.
It is carved from a single zelkova tree, with a plump, gentle, and mild face. This masterpiece dates back to the mid-Heian period (late 10th century).
However, pay attention to the lower half of this Yakushi Nyorai (the part where it is sitting cross-legged). Compared to the splendid upper body, the feet seem unnaturally "flat".
Why is that?
Craftsmen of the Edo Period Battling Deadlines
In fact, this statue has a history of being hurriedly repaired during the Genroku era (around 1690) when the temple was restored because the lower half had decayed.
According to tradition, the date for the temple's "Rengei Ceremony (Renewal Opening)" was approaching, and the sculptors were in a panic!
It is speculated that they thought, "Since worshippers will look up from below and the feet will be covered with cloth (lacquer), let's skip the feet part which won't be seen and finish it quickly!" and thus it was made in a rush (with a bit of cutting corners).
Doesn't it feel like you can hear the desperate excuses of the craftsmen from the Edo Period racing against deadlines, creating a sense of familiarity?
[Mystery 2] Did the Twelve Divine Generals forcibly "modify" the Four Heavenly Kings!?
Near the entrance of the hall, five statues of the "Twelve Divine Generals (Juni Shinjō)" who are the bodyguards of Yakushi Nyorai are lined up.
However, these statues are also under suspicion of having "a significant issue".
Generally, the role of stepping on evil spirits (small demons) is assigned to the "Four Heavenly Kings," and the Twelve Divine Generals do not step on them. Yet, for some reason, the Twelve Divine Generals here are stepping on the evil spirits with gusto.
Moreover, one of the five clearly has a different style and stands stiffly with a face resembling an anime character.
A miraculous collaboration born from "adult circumstances"?
From here on, it is speculation, but perhaps there was a conversation among people at that time.
- "Since the main deity is Yakushi Nyorai, we definitely want the Twelve Divine Generals."
- "But we don't have the money to make 12 new ones."
- "Then let's just modify the 'Four Heavenly Kings (4 statues)' that are around here and call them the Twelve Divine Generals!"
- "Oh, that's a great idea! Let's make one more new one and make it five!"
The truth is hidden in the darkness, but imagining such "budget constraints" and "adult circumstances" while viewing the Buddha statues is the ultimate intellectual entertainment in historical exploration.
[Cultural Perspective] Are they "in training" or "after enlightenment"?
Of course, not only are there funny episodes, but also deep Buddhist teachings hidden within.
Let's compare the sitting posture (lotus position) of the Yakushi Nyorai at "Katsuzōji," which is also one of the Aizu Five Yakushi, with that of the Yakushi Nyorai at this "Kamiuman Yakushidō."
The differences in facial expressions are firmly hidden behind such doctrinal reasons.
Embark on a fieldwork to explore the "true intentions" hidden in the Buddha statues.
How was it?
When you take off the stiff glasses of "magnificent cultural properties" found in art books, you will discover the same relatable human drama struggling with budgets and deadlines.
At "Tabinoito," we offer a tour in the [Academic Style] where guides humorously and academically explain the "behind-the-scenes stories" and "tips for identification" of these Buddha statues.
"This Buddha was definitely panicking and worried about missing the deadline (laughs)."
Why not enjoy a deep and fun appreciation of Buddha statues while conversing in your mind with the craftsmen of the Edo period?
