Name Meaning
Overview
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Zennyo Ryūō (善如龍王) translates roughly to “Virtuous Dragon King.” He is a revered rain deity in Buddhist lore and traditional Japanese folklore.
- Zennyo (善如) = virtuous, good-natured
- Ryūō (龍王) = dragon king
Origin
- Worshipped in Japanese Buddhism as a rain-bringing dragon spirit.
- Appears in legends tied to temples like Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto.
- Connected to Chinese dragon lore introduced with Buddhist teachings.
Appearance
- Usually depicted as a coiled dragon with divine or noble features.
- Sometimes shown with a human head or holding a wish-granting jewel.
- Surrounded by clouds or rain to signify his power over weather.
Behavior & Myths
- Summoned in rain rituals to end droughts or bless harvests.
- Appears during special temple rites or in dreams of monks and priests.
- May withhold rain if disrespected or forgotten.
Symbolism
- Represents the life-giving power of nature and divine authority.
- Symbol of blessings, prosperity, and balance in agriculture.
- Spiritual guardian tied to Buddhist virtue and environmental harmony.
