Peacock Symbolism In Japan

It was intriguing to find a peacock souvenir in a temple. Since I like peacocks, I bought one. And I have thought about its roots and meaning.

Peacock is the national bird of India, a symbol of beauty and grace. And there is Parvani the peacock, vehicle of Skanda, representing majesty and splendour. Then, peacocks are reputed for eating poisonous snakes and being able to sense the approach of rain. Hence the deity called Mayamahuri. Peacocks figure in Buddhism, which appeared in India.

Buddhism carried its symbolism towards the east, till Japan. The peacock is associated with the deity called Kannon in Japan. It is a symbol of compassion and kind-heartedness, and it is believed to have the power to counteract poison and invoke rain. And it ensures good health. It is altogether a good symbol.

It is made of clay, and hand-painted. And it has a small bell inside.