raigō

This image of the Amida Buddha and attendants descending from the heavens to greet the soul of the dying believer is called a raigōzu (Descent of Amida painting). The theme would later be developed during the Kamakura period as an immensely popular icon, but it saw its first powerful…

…suggest a massive expression of raigō imagery, whether viewed by a worshiper within the sanctuary or by a visitor approaching the complex from a distance. Viewed frontally, the hall resembles a large bird with its wings extended as if in landing, recalling the downward flight of the Amida and bodhisattvas…

…of such grand subjects as raigō and the Buddha’s entry into nirvana.

… paintings featuring depictions of the Amida and entourage descending from paradise to greet the souls of the recently deceased faithful enjoyed considerable popularity.