Lightning-struck sacred cedar
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御神木の雷神様

Lightning-struck sacred cedar

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A sacred cedar tree that has survived a lightning strike about 20 years ago, now housing a newly carved statue of Raijin, the thunder god, for protection against lightning. This spiritual tree, into which Buddhist statues and prayer beads have long been carved, is believed to grant wishes.

This cedar tree was struck by lightning approximately twenty years ago, leaving its bark stripped away with linear scars marking where the bolt struck.

Trees that have been struck by lightning are believed to be inhabited by divine spirits. Since ancient times, people have carved Buddhist statues and prayer beads into such trees, cherishing them as sacred places capable of fulfilling the wishes of countless devotees.

With the cooperation of Buddhist sculptor Yamataka Ryūun, a statue of the Thunder Deity was carved into this sacred tree.

The cedar continues to live and thrive, and the Thunder Deity is said to dwell within it as well, both existing together in harmony. It remains treasured as a place of prayer where people continue to seek blessings for happiness and good fortune for generations to come.

Deities & Spirits

The Thunder Deity is said to be not only a god who presides over thunder, but also a god of light. While once regarded as a fearsome presence representing thunder itself, in modern times the deity is worshipped as a god who removes misfortune and as a god who protects against lightning strikes.

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