Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall Lecture

Flashcards related to the key concepts and terminology found in the Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall lecture notes.

Buddhism

A religion founded by Siddhartha Gautama (Śākyamuni), emphasizing spiritual enlightenment and teachings.

Nyorai

Buddhas who have attained enlightenment; characterized by features indicating their special status.

Bosatsu

Bodhisattvas, figures who seek enlightenment and assist others on their spiritual paths.

Myōō

Buddhist deities with great power, often depicted with fierce expressions to subdue evildoers.

Ten

Deities originating from ancient Indian gods, fulfilling roles such as protectors of the Buddhist dharma.

Kōhai

A halo or mandorla, representing the enlightened state of Buddhist deities.

Manmō

The web-like membrane between the fingers of a Nyorai, signifying the saving of all individuals.

Raigō'in

The mudrā used by Amida Nyorai to welcome beings into the Pure Land at the time of their death.

Kirikane

A technique of cutting gold foil into strips to create designs on paintings or statues.

Jōhaku

A long, thin garment draped over the shoulders of a Bosatsu.

Byakugō

The jewel-like feature on a Nyorai's forehead that symbolizes enlightenment.

Nōe

The robe worn by Buddhas, indicating their ascetic origins.

Gilt-Bronze

A production method for statues involving a lost-wax casting technique, commonly used for Buddhist sculptures.

Sākyamuni

The historical Buddha whose teachings are the foundation of Buddhism; revered throughout Buddhist culture.

Fudō

A Myōō depicted with a sword and a fiery halo, symbolizing the power to overcome evil.

Kichijō-ten

A goddess symbolizing good fortune, represented in Buddhist art and often associated with prosperity.