The Goma is a solemn religious ceremony that is supported by a deeply esoteric Buddhist doctrine. The Japanese word “Goma” is read “Homa” in Sanskrit. It means “to burn.” The word expresses the meaning that using the fire that comes from Buddha’s wisdom, worldly desires (the source of suffering) will be completely burned.

In the ascetic practices of Goma the officiating priest, who has performed the self-purification rites for both his mind and body, burns the Goma wood in the center of the fireplace of the Goma platform, which is in front of the principal Holy Image of Kobo Daishi. Prayers are also offered for those who have reached Yaku Doshi age. This is considered a climacteric period in a person’s life. There shall be an annulling of all calamities and a prayer for the safety and well being of the members and their families.

In passing, we might add that Yaku Doshi for men is at the ages of 25 and 42, for women at 19 and 33, and for both men and women at 60. These ages are the turning points in one’s life in which one is susceptible to misfortune.