User:Bamse/Twelve Heavenly Generals

Interpretations

 * Many say they represent the twelve vows of Yakushi; others say the 12 were present when the historical Buddha introduced the "Healing Sutra;" yet others that they offer protection during the 12 daylight hours, or that they represent the 12 months and 12 cosmic directions, or the 12 animals of the 12-year Chinese zodiac. ((statuary))
 * Members of Hachibushi, Tenbu, Yasha ((statuary))


 * According to the YAKUSHI RURIKOUNYORAI HONGAN KUDOKUKYOU 薬師瑠璃光如来本願功徳経, upon hearing the Buddha expound the worthiness of Yakushi, these yasha chanted his name and vowed to protect those who spread his sutra. Thus, they are specifically the protectors of those who are devoted to Yakushi and who chant the YAKUSHIKYOU 薬師経. ((JAANUS))
 * Considered emanations of Yakushi, ((JAANUS))