Fudo Myoo (Godai Myoo)

Fudo Myoo, chief of the Godai Myoo (Five Great Wisdom Kings), is a wrathful manifestation of Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana Buddha) revered in Japanese Vajrayana and esoteric Buddhist traditions, particularly Shingon and Tendai. Depicted with a fierce countenance, a sword to cut through delusion, and a rope to bind evil passions, he is associated with purification, the subjugation of obstacles, and protection against negative forces. Fudo Myoo is a central figure in ascetic practices such as waterfall purification rites and fire rituals (goma), where practitioners seek to burn away spiritual defilements under his fierce, unshakeable presence.