Nyoirin Kannon is a principal figure within esoteric Buddhism. The deity saves all sentient beings using a sacred jewel and a sacred wheel. It has six arms so that it can save all the people in the world of "six paths", which means there are six worlds which humans can belong to when they repeat the cycle of rebirth. Another characteristic of the deity is that it sits in contempation.
Nyoirin Kannon (Sudhana), also known as the Wish-Fulfilling Kannon, is one of the Bodhisattvas in Buddhism, particularly venerated in Japanese Buddhist sects like Jodo Shu and Shingon Shu. Nyoirin Kannon holds a special place among the Kannon Bodhisattvas, and its name translates to "Kannon Bodhisattva holding the wish-fulfilling jewel."
Nyoirin Kannon symbolizes the power to grant wishes among the various manifestations of Kannon Bodhisattva. Its most distinctive form is that of the Thousand-Armed Kannon, also known as the Thousand-Armed Thousand-Eyed Kannon. It is said to possess a thousand hands and a thousand eyes, with each hand believed to be used to alleviate people's suffering and fulfill their wishes. Furthermore, with the presence of the wish-fulfilling jewel, Nyoirin Kannon is revered as a Bodhisattva that brings about the fulfillment of desires and happiness.
The faith in Nyoirin Kannon is deeply rooted in Japanese Buddhist culture and is venerated in numerous temples and shrines. Especially in historically significant temples like Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto and Horyu-ji Temple in Nara, statues and images of Nyoirin Kannon are enshrined.
Devotees offer their wishes and prayers to Nyoirin Kannon, seeking happiness and the realization of their desires. Additionally, Nyoirin Kannon symbolizes the power to overcome suffering and adversity, providing a sense of comfort and hope to believers.
In summary, Nyoirin Kannon holds a significant place in Japanese Buddhist faith, beloved by many for its role in fulfilling wishes and bringing happiness. Its multifaceted forms and symbolism as a harbinger of wish fulfillment make it a special figure in Japanese Buddhist culture.