Kaigen (Eye-Opening) (開眼)

Kaigen refers to enshrining a Buddha statue or Buddhist painting newly made in a temple or hall to welcome the spirit. It is also called Nyubutsu kaigen, Kaimyo or Kaikomyo.

A ceremony for these is called Kaigen hoyo (also known as Kaigen kuyo).

Further, opening Chie no Me (wisdom-eye) and awakening to the truth of Buddhism, or achieving enlightenment, is sometimes called 'kaigen' as well.

Having held the kaigen of the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple in Nara in 752 is cited as a famous example. Kaigen is held by offering incense, flowers, tomyo (votive candle) and goma (holy fire).

[Original Japanese]