Butsudan

A butsudan (仏壇, literally "Buddha shelf") is a Japanese Buddhist altar or shrine in homes and temples. The butsudan is typically a cabinet made of wood, often lacquered and adorned with elaborate decorations. Its primary function is to enshrine a honzon (本尊), a principal image or object of worship, which can be a statue or a scroll representing a Buddha or Bodhisattva.

The interior of the butsudan often houses various religious implements and objects, including:

• Ihại (位牌): Memorial tablets for deceased ancestors.
• Offerings: Food, water, flowers, and incense are frequently offered.
• Candles: Lit to symbolize enlightenment and dispelling darkness.
• Incense burner: Used to burn incense, a symbolic offering representing purification.
• Other ritual objects: Items specific to the particular Buddhist sect and the family's tradition.

The butsudan serves as a focal point for family Buddhist practice, including chanting sutras, offering prayers, and remembering ancestors. It is a significant object in Japanese Buddhist households, representing a connection to the teachings of Buddhism and to deceased family members. Placement and maintenance of the butsudan are typically governed by specific customs and traditions within each Buddhist sect. Its presence signifies respect for the Buddhist tradition and provides a space for spiritual reflection and practice within the home.