This stone statue is commonly referred to as Ojizo-sama. He is considered to be the guardian of children's souls, especially children who've passed away before their parents. Most Ojizo-sama wear bibs and/or other baby accessories. They can often be found along side roads and near cemeteries.
Many people who pass by offer flowers and toys as gifts.
7 comments:
You took some nice photos of the markers! Must be very tragic to have a child die before his/her parent!
What a very interesting post, Kaori! I've never heard of Ojizo-sama before and I'm grateful that you told us about him and the custom of leaving baby things on his shrines. I hope he takes good care of the babies' parents too — I think they need comforting just as much.
Very interesting post. I've also never heard of Ojizo-sama.
Whoa!
I love the way as the 'mouse scrolling' on the photos reveals, from the particular, the total composition.
Really a gorgeous idea!
..and the colors are stunning ;)
Very touching story !
An interesting and sad post. I think this is a moving memento of the love for one's children.
What an interesting tradition. I'm glad to have learned about this.
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