Kishimojin: The Reformed Demoness and Guardian of Children
In the diverse pantheon of Japanese deities, few figures possess a backstory as dramatic or as paradoxically touching as Kishimojin (鬼子母神). Known principally as the guardian goddess of safe childbirth, child-rearing, and the protection of children, her name literally translates to “Demon Mother Goddess.”
For travelers exploring the spiritual side of Japan, stumbling upon a temple dedicated to Kishimojin offers a fascinating glimpse into how Japanese Buddhism embraces redemption and transformation. How did a figure with “Demon” in her name become the beloved protector of mothers and toddlers? The answer lies in a centuries-old tale of loss, empathy, and enlightenment.
Origins: From India to Japan
Kishimojin is the Japanese transliteration of the Sanskrit deity Hariti. Her worship originated in India and traveled along the Silk Road through China before arriving in Japan. While many Japanese deities have roots in Shinto, Kishimojin is strictly a figure of the Buddhist tradition, specifically associated with the Nichiren sect in Japan.
Unlike the kami found in the ancient Kojiki or Nihon Shoki, who are indigenous to the Japanese archipelago, Kishimojin represents the universal Buddhist theme of converting malevolent forces into protectors of the Dharma (Buddhist law). She is not just a statue to pray to; she is a lesson in the power of compassion.
The Legend of the Mother of Demons
The story of Kishimojin is one of the most famous parables in Buddhism. According to the legend, before her conversion, she was a terrifying demoness (rakshasi) who had hundreds—some sources say one thousand—children of her own. However, to feed her massive brood, she would abduct and devour the human children of the local villages. The mothers of the village, paralyzed by grief and terror, begged the Buddha for help.
To teach the demoness a lesson, the Buddha hid her youngest and most beloved child, Priyankara (often called Aiji in Japanese), under his alms bowl. When Kishimojin returned and found her baby missing, she went mad with grief, searching the entire universe in vain.
Finally, she approached the Buddha, pleading for the return of her child. The Buddha replied calmly, “You have hundreds of children, yet you grieve so deeply for the loss of just one. Imagine the suffering of the human mothers who had only one or two children, whom you have devoured.”
Struck by the realization of the pain she had caused, she repented immediately. She vowed to never kill again and to become a protector of all children and mothers. To satisfy her craving for flesh, the Buddha gave her a pomegranate, which is said to taste like human flesh, a symbol that remains associated with her to this day.
Modern Culture and Iconography
Today, Kishimojin is a beloved figure in Japanese culture, particularly revered by expectant mothers and parents praying for the health of their offspring.
The Hornless Demon
One of the most fascinating aspects of her worship in Japan is found in the calligraphy of her name. In standard Japanese, the character for “Demon” or “Oni” is written as 鬼, which includes a small stroke at the very top representing a horn. However, at specific temples like the famous Kishimojin-do in Zoshigaya, Tokyo, the character is intentionally written without the top stroke. This signifies that she has cast away her horns—and her demonic nature—to become a benevolent bodhisattva.
The Pomegranate Symbol
Visitors will often see crests or offerings featuring the pomegranate (zakuro). In Japan, the fruit is a symbol of fertility due to its many seeds, reinforcing her status as a goddess of safe delivery. It also serves as a reminder of her vow to the Buddha.
Traveler’s Tips: Visiting Zoshigaya Kishimojin-do
While there are altars to Kishimojin across Japan, the most atmospheric and accessible location for travelers is the Zoshigaya Kishimojin-do in Tokyo, located near Ikebukuro.
- The Gingko Tree: The temple grounds are home to a massive, ancient gingko tree, said to be over 600 years old. It is a designated natural monument and adds a mystical atmosphere to the site.
- The Candy Shop: Don’t miss the Kamikawaguchi-ya, the oldest candy store in Japan, located right on the temple grounds. It has been serving visitors since 1781 and offers a nostalgic taste of old Edo.
- Susuki Mimizuku: Look for the local folk craft called Susuki Mimizuku (pampas grass horned owls). Legend says a poor girl created these owls to sell to pay for medicine for her sick mother after Kishimojin appeared in a dream to guide her.
- Oeshiki Festival: If you visit in mid-October, the Oeshiki festival features a parade of lights and heavy drums (mando) that creates a spirited, rhythmic atmosphere distinct from quiet temple visits.
Etiquette
When visiting, it is customary to wash your hands at the purification fountain (chozuya) before approaching the main hall. If you purchase an amulet (omamori) for safe childbirth, it should be treated with respect and returned to the temple after the child is born safely as a sign of gratitude.
Sources & Further Reading
For those interested in the textual origins of Kishimojin and Japanese mythology, the following texts provide historical and religious context:
- The Lotus Sutra (Hokke-kyo): Specifically Chapter 26 (Dharani), where the ten demon daughters (jurasetsu) and the Mother of Demon Children pledge to protect those who uphold the sutra. This is the primary scriptural source for her worship in Nichiren Buddhism.
- Nihon Ryoiki: An early collection of Japanese Buddhist legends (setsuwa) that illustrates the integration of Buddhist morality into Japanese folklore.
- The Kojiki & Nihon Shoki: While these 8th-century texts focus on Shinto creation myths and do not feature Kishimojin (who arrived later with Buddhism), reading them provides essential context for understanding the distinction between native Kami and imported Buddhist deities like Kishimojin.