Gongen

Gongen refers to a concept in Japanese religious tradition where certain kami (spirits or deities) are believed to have manifested as incarnations or avatars, often within Buddhist contexts. The term signifies a divine spirit that has taken a physical form to serve as a protector or guide, bridging Shinto and Buddhist beliefs. Gongen are revered as special embodiments of divine power, demonstrating the interconnectedness of spiritual forces in Japan’s religious history. They often appear in temples or shrines as manifestations of revered deities, emphasizing the unity and coexistence of different spiritual traditions.