Its a beautiful Japanese altar cupboard used by Buddhists of Nichiren persuasion or those that come from the SGI or the Sokka Gakai International Buddhist denomination. Used to house the Gohonzon or the "kami" spirit, the Butsudan has 2 distinctive layers of doors folded twice when opened (collapsible)
A very culturally Japanese traditional fixture at home, almost every old Japanese family has one (except those who have converted to other faiths)
Butsudan doors are opened only during prayer sessions and also comes with an assortment of singing bowl/bell, a candle, incense, scripture stand, and also houses pictures and ancestral tablets of the departed. During evenings, it is closed. Am not sure why it ought to be closed since spirits or a diety cannot be physically "trapped" by it for safekeeping.
but all those doors kinda make it look cool and sleek with a deep resonance of solemn feel to it which i like.
Here are some of the many samples online which are really cool
Something I was thinking if i can get hold of one to house a crucifix and the number of statues that I have.
the models i've seen online look kinda tricky to make one.
Or should i just buy a 2 door cupboard and convert it into one?
Am considering of having one for a Catholic altar. No harm right? Fancy "Asianising/Japanising" my Catholic devotions with this one. Something to look forward to!
Hi I just wanted you to know the term Butsudan means house of the Buddha. Also all Buddhist use them, not just Nicherin, but the style differs from sect to sect. The main purpose of the Butsudan is to protect the object of worship, the Gohonzen, and that is why they are often closed. However they are opened each day for morning and evening prayer....and for extended prayer sessions called a Shodia or Toso.
ReplyDeleteIn the Nicherin sect the object of worship is a mandela. Other sects use a statue of the Buddha. I hope this clarify why they are often closed in private homes.
Peace and Love
Hi Speak-out,
Deletethanks so much for your comment. Now i understand its true purpose, and perhaps refrain from misusing it for other purpose. Nichiren is a beautiful religion and interesting in its own way. Take care!