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X-ray reveals hidden mini tower inside statue of ancient Buddhist leader in Kyoto
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ201409020069
X-ray reveals hidden mini tower inside statue of ancient Buddhist leader in Kyoto
September 02, 2014
By NORIHIDE FURUSAWA/ Staff Writer
NARA--A miniature "gorinto" five-ringed Buddhist tower has been discovered inside a statue of the founder of the Daigoji temple in Kyoto’s Fushimi Ward.
The announcement of the discovery was made Sept. 1 by Daigoji temple and the Nara National Museum. The gorinto was revealed after the centuries-old 83-centimeter high wooden statue underwent an X-ray examination.
Daigoji temple, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, was founded by monk Rigen Daishi (832-909) during the Heian Period (794-1185). The seated statue of Rigen Daishi at the temple is designated as one of Japan’s important cultural properties.
<snip>
“I am impressed to find that faith in the gorinto, a symbol of the universe, continues to this day,” he said.
The statue of Rigen Daishi holds a "gokosho," a ritual implement of esoteric Buddhism, in his right hand. It is the second such statue to be constructed one year after the first one enshrined in Kaizando hall at the temple was destroyed by fire in 1260.
<snip>
X-ray reveals hidden mini tower inside statue of ancient Buddhist leader in Kyoto
September 02, 2014
By NORIHIDE FURUSAWA/ Staff Writer
NARA--A miniature "gorinto" five-ringed Buddhist tower has been discovered inside a statue of the founder of the Daigoji temple in Kyoto’s Fushimi Ward.
The announcement of the discovery was made Sept. 1 by Daigoji temple and the Nara National Museum. The gorinto was revealed after the centuries-old 83-centimeter high wooden statue underwent an X-ray examination.
Daigoji temple, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, was founded by monk Rigen Daishi (832-909) during the Heian Period (794-1185). The seated statue of Rigen Daishi at the temple is designated as one of Japan’s important cultural properties.
<snip>
“I am impressed to find that faith in the gorinto, a symbol of the universe, continues to this day,” he said.
The statue of Rigen Daishi holds a "gokosho," a ritual implement of esoteric Buddhism, in his right hand. It is the second such statue to be constructed one year after the first one enshrined in Kaizando hall at the temple was destroyed by fire in 1260.
<snip>
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