Spreader of Light in All Directions; The Great Illuminator
Also known as: Dai Nichi
Classification: Buddha
Dainichi is the Japanese name and manifestation of Mahavairocana, the Great Sun Buddha, Lord of the Cosmos, venerated in the Shingon esoteric Buddhist tradition.
Favored people: Dainichi is guardian of those born in the years of the monkey and sheep.
Iconography: Dainichi, his hair in a top-knot, is enthroned on a lotus. He wears the crown and jewelry of royalty. One hand forms gestures of blessing (mudra).
In March 2008, a twelfth-century wooden statue of Dainichi was auctioned for $14,377,000 by Christie’s New York auction house, setting a record for Japanese art.
Attribute: A medicine jar
Planet: Sun
Direction: Southwest
See also: Buddha