Fudo

Fudo Myo-o is Japan’s version of Acalanatha.  I’ve always been particularly fond of the Fudo because of the inherent irony of the character.  A Wisdom King, Fudo is neither a Buddha nor a Bodhisattva but something else entirely.

Despite his fierce, demon-like appearance, Fudo is a being of compassion.  Whether depicted sitting or standing, Fudo is considered immovable because he has vowed to be of service to all beings for eternity.

Fudo is surrounded by flames to show both the intensity of his determination, and also his determination to burn away all delusion.  He’s often considered the last chance for souls about to enter hell.

And the irony?  Fudo holds a sword to cut through the chains of ignorance that bind you, but also holds the rope of Buddhist doctrine with which to rebind you.  Why?  Because, let’s face it, until you reach enlightenment you’re going to be bound by something, and ropes are easier to free yourself from than chains, right?  I mean, you really gotta love someone with that much on the ball.

I have a hand-carved cypress Fudo in my butsudan.  It’s a gift from my wife, and therefore doubly treasured.  Seeing Fudo never fails to lighten my mood and brighten my mediation.  His expression always reminds me of something a teacher once told me: meditate as if your hair is on fire.  When I was younger, that was a lot of work and I’m sure I scowled a lot.  Now, however, I find it easy and meditation always leaves me smiling.

Let it burn, I have more important things to do than worry about that.