Musashibo Benkei (Unknown–1189)

Musashibo Benkei was a monk in the early Kamakura Period. He appears in Noh and Kabuki plays and is widely popular as a courageous hero.

He was born as a son of the head of three shrines of Kumano. He reportedly had the nickname “Oniwaka” (demon child) since he had superhuman strength like a supernatural being. He eventually went through ascetic training in the Sai-to area of Hieizan Enryakuji Temple; however, he was expelled due to his violent attitude with his extraordinary build and strength. Even in Kyoto, he got involved with violence and kept on confiscating swords from passersby. Finally he took 999 swords; however, the 1000th passer-by was Minamoto no Yoshitsune, and Yoshitsune defeated Benkei with his swordplay technique. Since then, Benkei had loyally served Yoshitune. Benkei helped his master with his wisdom and strength when he accompanied Yoshitsune to hunt down the Taira Clan and to flee to Oshu Province (northern Honshu). After Yoshitsune died at the Battle of Koromo River, he died standing after being shot by arrows all over his body in 1189.

There is a sacred bell in Miidera Temple said to have been dragged along there by Benkei, and it reminds us of the extraordinary strength of the extremely bold man, Benkei.