Virūpākṣa

Virūpākṣa, also known as Guangmu Tianwang or Kōmokuten, is a major deity in Buddhism. He is one of the Four Heavenly Kings and a dharmapala, which means "defender of the dharma". Virūpākṣa is often depicted as a fearsome-looking figure with three eyes, each of which sees in a different direction. He is also said to have a terrifying roar that can shake the earth. However, despite his fearsome appearance, Virūpākṣa is actually a benevolent deity who protects the teachings of the Buddha. One of Virūpākṣa's most famous stories is about how he saved the Buddha from a demon. The demon, named Māra, was trying to prevent the Buddha from achieving enlightenment. He sent his daughters, the Māra-devīs, to seduce the Buddha. However, Virūpākṣa appeared and drove the Māra-devīs away. He then protected the Buddha from Māra's other attacks, allowing the Buddha to achieve enlightenment. Virūpākṣa is a powerful and important deity in Buddhism. He is a reminder that even the most fearsome-looking figures can be benevolent and protective.