Buddhist Mythology

The Gods and Bodhisvattas of Enlightenment...

BON MATSURI

Japanese religious festival

Also known as Bon Festival, Obon Festival

The Midsummer Lantern Festival of the Dead

This is to celebrate the souls of the dead reaching Sanzu No Kawa, which is similar to the Greek Underworld’s River Styx, even to the point of having to pay for the ferry. Allthough in this case there is an old ferrywoman, Sod Zu Baba, instead of a man.

By the 15th the souls arrive at Gadiko, a purgatory, to be sorted.

Meanwhile the living light lanterns, fires, fireworks as they feast amidst floral decorations to give the Souls a good send off — culminating in floating lighted candles on rivers.

A splendid time is had by everyone — even the dead. There is even a special dance, the Bon Odori, which is a joyful celebration of the deceased souls. The dead love a good jive.

Bon Matsuri Facts and Figures

Name: Bon Matsuri
Pronunciation: Coming soon
Alternative names: Bon Festival, Obon Festival

Gender: Sorry, we don't know
Type: religious festival
Celebration or Feast Day: Unknown at present

Role: Unknown at present

Good/Evil Rating: NEUTRAL, may not care
Popularity index: 2350

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Article last revised on September 20, 2018 by Rowan Allen.
Editors: Peter J. Allen, Chas Saunders

References: Coming soon.

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