The name Fudo Myoo means motionless, or unshakable like that of a mountain. It is a Japanese name for the Buddha Acala. In Sanskrit his name means Conqueror of Three Poisons (three passions: love, hatred and ignorance). He is a wrathful aspect of Vairocana, one of the Five Great Kings of Light. As depicted here, he is seated in royal ease, holding a vajra-hilt sword in his right and a rope in his left, together they symbolize the cutting through of men's ignorance and lead them enlightenment.
When comparing to other meticulously gilt and carved wood Buddha of Japan, this statue of Fudo Myoo may appear to be overly simplistic from a novice perspective. In fact, this is a rare example of the brilliant Japanese carving style known as "ITTOBORI". An one bladed technique carved in facets on wood, which emphasize the essence of creative intuition, and avoid overworking the materials. Such approach is evident in this extraordinary carving of Fudo Myoo seated atop a rock with a raging flame adora. The ittobori technique has succeeded in rendering an awe inspiring feat of naturalism. It defy emulation on both material and spiritual planes, and well suited for a Fudo Myoo Buddha statue.