Jizo Bosatsu "Womb of the Earth"

Jizo is the bodhisattva who vowed not to enter Nirvana, "not until the hells are emptied will I become a buddha; not until all beings are saved will I certify to Bodhi."

Jizo Bosatsu is beloved in Japan and statues of him can be found in every town and every hiking trail. He is the protector of children, expectant mothers, firemen, and travelers. Most of all, he is the protector of deceased children.