After a night of temptation and doubt, Buddha reached enlightenment just as Venus appeared in the morning sky.
Perhaps inspired by this, Jizen may have used the radish to symbolise the star, linking it to the overcoming of obstacles. The vegetable would come to be seen as a charm.
#daikondaki #大根だき#Buddha #venus #radish #radishfestival#Daihoonji#SenbonShakado
Content Warning
Considered a charm against evil (悪魔除けの大根), it made sense that these radishes would also help alleviate illnesses & diseases when consumed.
The 'blessed' radishes were mixed with others in a great cauldron and fed to the congregation to promote health for the upcoming year.
Woodblock print of the god Daikokuten carrying a giant daikon.
Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of armor and a giant daikon.
Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the god Daikokuten writing on a giant daikon.
Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a horse carrying daikon.
Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
