February 3, 2010

Guardian of Children


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:

Leif Hagen said...

You took some nice photos of the markers! Must be very tragic to have a child die before his/her parent!

Hilda said...

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.

gogouci said...

Very interesting post. I've also never heard of Ojizo-sama.

Lenola Daily Photo said...

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 ;)

Babzy.B said...

Very touching story !

VP said...

An interesting and sad post. I think this is a moving memento of the love for one's children.

Mary said...

What an interesting tradition. I'm glad to have learned about this.

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