The Guardian Buddhas for Each Zodiac Sign

Guardian Buddha (Benming-Fo) is a folk Buddhist tradition. Folk belief says each zodiac sign is guarded by one Bodhisattva. Note: Official Buddhism does not have the concept of “Guardian Buddha”. It is a later folk combination of zodiac and Bodhisattvas. Zodiac-Guardian Buddha correspondences: Rat: Avalokitesvara with Thousand Hands Ox, Tiger: Akasagarbha Bodhisattva Rabbit: Manjushri Bodhisattva Dragon, Snake: Samantabhadra Bodhisattva Horse: Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva Goat, Monkey: Mahavairocana Buddha Rooster: Acala Dog, Pig: Amitabha Buddha Folk custom believes wearing or worshipping the guardian Buddha brings protection and relief from hardship. It represents people's good wishes for safety and wellbeing.