Saito Goma

Koboji warmly invites everyone to join us for our annual Saitō Goma, a traditional outdoor fire ceremony of Shingon Buddhism.

The Goma ceremony is a sacred ritual dedicated to Fudō Myōō, the Wisdom King who embodies the compassion and determination to overcome ignorance and obstacles.

During the ceremony, specially prepared wooden prayer sticks (goma-gi) are offered into the sacred fire. The flames symbolize the wisdom of the Buddha, which consumes ignorance and transforms our difficulties into opportunities for spiritual growth.

Together, we offer prayers for health, safety, protection, and the well-being of our families, community, and all living beings.

Participating in Saitō Goma

Goma-gi bearing traditional prayers are available from Koboji. Before the ceremony, worshippers may rub the prayer sticks over their bodies while offering their personal prayers. The sticks are then offered into the sacred fire during the ceremony.