Todaiji
Title
Todaiji
Publisher
Lawrence Technological University
Date Created
August 3, 2015
Alternative Title or Name
Great Eastern Temple
Creator2
O’Connor, Thomas (photograph)
Work Type
Single Built Works
Date
April, 1972
Work Location
Japan (nation)
Nara (inhabited place)
Style/Period
Japanese architecture styles
Subject
temples (buildings)
Japanese Buddhism
Description
Detail view of entrance to the Todaiji Temple at Nara, Japan. "The origins of Tōdai-ji lie in a temple called Kinshō-ji which was founded in 728 for the repose of the spirit of Crown Prince Motoi, son of Emperor Shōmu (r. 724-749). In 741 when the Emperor issued his edict ordering the construction of a national system of monasteries (Kinkōmyō-ji) known as the Kokubun-ji, Kinshō-ji was elevated in status. In 743 Emperor Shōmu issued his proclamation for the erection of a Great Buddha Image and when the capital was returned to Heijō (Nara) construction of the colossal image of Vairocana was begun on the grounds of the Kinkōmyō-ji and was completed in 749. Construction of the Great Buddha Hall took place concurrently and the image was dedicated in 752 with a lavish consecration ceremony. The arch gateway identified the temple threshold as the pilgrims summoned their spiritual energy. As they traveled along the main thoroughfare reciting incantations, the symmetrical layout of buildings and pagodas reinforced the imagery of cosmic order. Upon reaching the temple worship hall, they are within the physical presence of Buddha and thus focused their prayers towards the religious icon,"--Japanese architecture & temple structure, Leon Z. Lee, 8/13/2003 from the Association for Asian Research website.
Material/Medium
wood (plant material)
Reproduction Type
jpeg
Copyright Statement
©2013 Lawrence Technological University. These images may be used for personal or educational purposes. They are not available for commercial purposes without the explicit permission of LTU.
ID Number
LTU-TOJ-105
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