Name Meaning
Sōjōbō (僧正坊) means “High Priest Monk,” referring to his noble appearance and immense spiritual power.
- Sōjō (僧正) = high priest or bishop
- Bō (坊) = monk or priest
Origin
- Resides on Mount Kurama, north of Kyoto.
- Considered the leader of all tengu.
- Featured in Noh plays, kabuki, and folktales as a wise and powerful figure.
Appearance
- Portrayed as a towering yamabushi (mountain priest) with a long white beard.
- Has the red face and long nose characteristic of a daitengu.
- Often shown with a fan made of feathers and a sword at his waist.
Behavior & Myths
- Taught the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune in his youth.
- Revered as a martial arts master and wielder of powerful magic.
- Unlike lesser tengu, he is wise, proud, and capable of deep judgment.
Symbolism
- Represents the peak of spiritual and physical mastery.
- A symbol of mountain ascetics and the mysterious forces of the wilds.
- Feared and respected as a guardian of sacred knowledge.
