Glossary

Raiten (内 典) is the Japanese word for sutra. See also sutra

Namu Daishi Henjo Kongo ( 南 無 大師 遍照 金剛) is an inscription found on many of the equipment of the Shikoku Pilgrim. It is a Shingon Buddhist sutra in honor of its founder Kukai (or Kobo Daishi). (more…)

Niōmon (仁王 門) literally the door (門) of Niō warriors (仁王) is the gateway to the temple guarded by 2 wooden statues depicting fierce warriors.

Nojuku (野 宿) means wild camping. During the shikoku pilgrimage, this term refers to either sleeping outside or in basic shelters made available to pilgrims.

The nōkyōchō ((納 経 帳)) is a notebook that is presented to each of the 88 Shikoku pilgrimage temples to collect stamps and calligraphy at the Nōkyō-shō. It is usually bought at the first temple, there are different sizes and shapes.

Nyorai (如 来) refers to the Buddhas, ie those who have attained enlightenment. The word Nyorai comes from the Sanskrit Tathagata, which Buddha used to designate himself. (more…)