Dogs in Japanese Shinto

In the Japanese tradiiton of cultural symbolism, dogs and lions seem to have shared a crossed destiny.

Komainu ( or “Goguryeo dog”) , are statue pairs of lion-like creatures, which traditionally guard the entrance or gate of the shrine, or placed in front of or within the honden (inner sanctum) of Japanese Shinto shrines.

Komainu, the guardian statues found at the entrances of Shinto shrines, are believed to possess the power to ward off evil spirits. These iconic figures, typically crafted from stone, wood, or metal, have evolved over centuries, taking on various forms and symbolic meanings.

In their earliest iterations, komainu were nearly identical, resembling both lions and dogs. However, over time, the two forms diverged, becoming distinct in both appearance and symbolism. The open-mouthed statue, known as a-gyō, represents the first sound of the Buddhist mantra “Om Ah Hum.” It is associated with the elements of fire, masculinity, and the exhalation of breath. Conversely, the closed-mouthed statue, called un-gyō, embodies the final sound of the mantra and is linked to water, femininity, and the inhalation of breath.

These two contrasting forms, collectively known as a-un, represent the duality and balance of the universe, a concept deeply rooted in both Shinto and Buddhist philosophy. The a-un symbolism is also evident in the Niō, the two guardian deities found at the entrances of Buddhist temples.

Komainu’s origins can be traced back to Tang dynasty China, where guardian lions were believed to protect against evil spirits and bring good fortune. These Chinese lions, in turn, were influenced by depictions of lions found in Middle Eastern and Indian art.

During the Nara period (710–794), komainu were initially used as indoor ornaments, often crafted from wood. By the Heian period (794–1185), wooden and metal pairs served various purposes, including weights, door-stops, and supports for screens.

The practice of placing wooden and stone representations of komainu and lions emerged around the mid-Heian period (tenth century). By the early Heian period (ninth century), the tradition evolved, leading to the creation of two distinct statues with different names.

One statue, resembling the traditional lion, retained its open mouth and was named shishi. The other, with its closed mouth and dog-like features, was called komainu or “Goguryeo dog,” sometimes adorned with a single horn.

Over time, the two statues became more alike, except for their mouths, and were collectively referred to as komainu. These guardian figures eventually took on apotropaic qualities, believed to protect not only Shinto shrines but also royal palaces, nobility residences, and even private homes.

Starting in the Edo period (1603–1868), komainu began to be placed along the sandō, the pathways leading to shrines. These are now categorized as sandō komainu, while the older type found within shrine grounds are called jinnai komainu.

The Edo period also witnessed the introduction of other animals, such as wild boars, tigers, dragons, and foxes, as substitutes for lions or dogs in komainu statues.

Komainu have long been revered for their protective powers and their ability to bring good fortune. They are often paired with other symbolic animals, such as foxes or dragons, to further enhance their protective qualities.

Their placement is considered highly significant in Shinto tradition. Typically, they stand on either side of the entrance gate, facing outwards to ward off evil spirits. Komainu are also sometimes positioned within shrines, near the honden, the most sacred inner sanctum, to safeguard it from negative influences.

Komainu, the guardian statues found at the entrances of Shinto shrines, have evolved over centuries, taking on various forms and symbolic meanings. Their placement is considered highly significant in Shinto tradition, typically flanking the entrance gate to ward off evil spirits.

Komainu are often paired with other symbolic animals, such as foxes or dragons, to further enhance their protective qualities. These pairings reflect the belief that different animals possess unique protective powers. For instance, foxes are associated with cunning and intelligence, while dragons symbolize strength and power.

The placement of komainu pairs is not merely decorative; it carries deep symbolic meaning. The open-mouthed statue, a-gyō, is typically positioned to the right, representing the exhalation of breath and the active, masculine principle. Conversely, the closed-mouthed statue, un-gyō, sits to the left, symbolizing the inhalation of breath and the receptive, feminine principle.

This arrangement of a-gyō and un-gyō aligns with the concept of yin and yang, the complementary forces that govern the universe. It represents the balance between creation and destruction, activity and passivity, male and female energies.

The duality of a-gyō and un-gyō is further emphasized by their contrasting facial expressions. A-gyō’s fiere grimace embodies the power of exorcism, while un-gyō’s serene expression represents the tranquility of protection.

Komainu’s symbolic significance extends beyond their placement and facial expressions. Their physical features often carry specific meanings. For instance, their paws resting on a ball symbolize the world and their ability to protect it. Additionally, the single horn on some komainu statues represents their divine nature and connection to the spiritual realm.

Komainu’s intricate carvings and designs also hold symbolic meaning. These adornments often depict auspicious motifs, such as flowers, clouds, and mythical creatures, which serve to enhance the protective powers of the statues.

The placement of komainu within shrines is not arbitrary; it follows specific guidelines. The jinnai komainu, the older type found within shrine grounds, are typically positioned near the honden, the most sacred inner sanctum. This placement signifies their role in safeguarding the shrine’s spiritual essence.

In contrast, the sandō komainu, those placed along the pathways leading to shrines, serve a broader protective function. They stand as guardians of the sacred approach, warding off evil spirits and ensuring the purity of the shrine’s precincts.

The tradition of placing komainu at shrines and other sacred sites has endured for centuries, reflecting the deep-rooted belief in their protective powers.

Komainu have become an integral part of Shinto culture, symbolizing

• protection,
• guardianship, and
• good fortune.

Their presence continues to inspire reverence and respect among Japanese people today.

The symbolism of komainu extends beyond their placement and physical features. Their association with specific colors also carries significant meaning. The open-mouthed a-gyō statue is often linked to the color red, representing fire, masculinity, and passion. This association with red reinforces its role as an active, dynamic guardian, warding off evil spirits with vigor.

In contrast, the closed-mouthed un-gyō statue is commonly associated with

• the color blue,
• symbolizing water,
• femininity,
• and tranquility.

This connection to blue reflects its role as a receptive, protective guardian, safeguarding the shrine with a sense of calm and composure.

The interplay of red and blue, embodied by a-gyō and un-gyō, respectively, represents the balance of yin and yang within the komainu pair. It signifies the harmonious union of opposing forces, essential for maintaining cosmic order and ensuring protection.

The symbolic significance of komainu extends to their materials as well. Stone komainu are the most prevalent, as stone is considered a durable, enduring material that symbolizes strength, resilience, and permanence. This choice of material reflects the komainu’s role as steadfast guardians, standing watch over shrines for centuries.

Wooden komainu, though less common, carry their own unique symbolism. Wood is associated with nature, growth, and renewal. Wooden komainu, therefore, embody the connection between the spiritual realm and the natural world, serving as protectors of both.

Metal komainu, often crafted from bronze or copper, represent power, authority, and longevity. These metallic guardians symbolize the unwavering protection provided by komainu, their presence enduring through time.

The evolution of komainu over centuries reflects the cultural and artistic influences that shaped their form and symbolism. From their origins in Chinese guardian lions to their adaptation in Japanese Shinto tradition, komainu have become a testament to the enduring power of symbolism and the deep-rooted belief in protective spirits.

Today, komainu continue to stand as iconic guardians at Shinto shrines, their presence a reminder of the ancient traditions and beliefs that have shaped Japanese culture. They remain revered symbols of protection, good fortune, and the harmonious balance of the universe.

The enduring presence of komainu at Shinto shrines and their widespread depiction in Japanese art and literature reflect their deep-rooted significance in Japanese culture. Komainu have transcended their role as mere guardians, becoming symbols of cultural identity, artistic expression, and spiritual reverence.

In Japanese art, komainu have been portrayed in various forms and mediums, from intricate carvings on temple gates to delicate brushstrokes on paintings. Their depictions often capture their fierce expressions, powerful forms, and symbolic significance.

For instance, in the Heian period (794–1185), komainu were frequently depicted in Buddhist art, often flanking the entrance to temples. These artistic representations emphasized the protective and apotropaic qualities of komainu, reinforcing their role as guardians of the sacred realm.

During the Edo period (1603–1868), komainu became a popular subject in netsuke, small ornamental carvings that were attached to personal belongings. These netsuke often portrayed komainu in playful or humorous poses, reflecting the lighter side of their symbolism and their association with good luck.

The literary world also embraced komainu as a source of artistic inspiration. In folktales and legends, komainu were often depicted as wise and benevolent creatures, capable of protecting humans from harm and bestowing blessings upon them.

These literary portrayals further cemented komainu’s position as beloved symbols of protection and good fortune. They became characters in stories that were passed down through generations, reinforcing their connection to Japanese folklore and cultural identity.

The enduring popularity of komainu in Japanese art and literature is a testament to their profound cultural significance. They have transcended their original purpose as guardians, becoming symbols of Japanese identity, artistic expression, and spiritual reverence.

Today, komainu continue to inspire artists and writers, their iconic forms and symbolism serving as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Japan. They remain a ubiquitous presence in Japanese culture, their presence a source of comfort, protection, and inspiration.

Now, a komainou myth with a message for out own times, and the ages!

The Myth of the Shishio and the Komainu

Once upon a time, there was a powerful shishio, or lion-dog spirit, who lived in the mountains of Japan. The shishio was a feared creature, known for its strength and ferocity. It was said that the shishio could breathe fire and that its roar could shake the very ground.
One day, a young komainu, or guardian lion, was born in a small village at the foot of the mountains. The komainu was a gentle and playful creature, and it quickly became beloved by the villagers.
When the shishio heard about the komainu, it was filled with curiosity. It had never met another creature like itself before, and it was eager to see what the komainu was like.
The shishio descended from the mountains and approached the village. The villagers were terrified, for they knew the shishio’s reputation. But the komainu, who was not afraid of anything, went out to meet the shishio.
The shishio was surprised by the komainu’s small size and gentle demeanor. It had expected the komainu to be as fierce as itself, but the komainu was simply curious and friendly.
The two creatures quickly became friends. They played together in the mountains and explored the village. The villagers were amazed to see the shishio, once a fearsome creature, now playing happily with the komainu.
The shishio learned a lot from the komainu about the importance of kindness and compassion. It realized that it did not need to be fierce and feared in order to be respected.
The shishio and the komainu became inseparable friends. They lived together in the mountains, protecting the village from harm. And the villagers were no longer afraid of the shishio, for they knew that it was a gentle and kind creature at heart.