Virtual Kubota Castle Town 33 Kannon Pilgrimage #9 Goshin-ji Temple

 

     Goshin-ji Temple was founded by Priest Oten in Kurobedono-machi (today's Narayama Minaminakacho, Akita, 010-0022), in 1615.  Kurobedono-machi was called so because Otsuka Kurobe's foot soldiers lived in the town.  The temple moved to its present place in 1622.

     Goda Shichiemon was a man who was often referred to as "Demon Shichiemon."  Known for his fierce temper, he would slash at people on the street and would severely torture anyone he deemed weaker than himself.  In the Battle of Osaka, which decided the fate of the country, he joined the forces of Satake Yoshinobu, which surrounded Osaka Castle.  Otsuka Kurobe was in the forces.

     Before the battle, Shichiemon caused another incident.  Shichiemon got into a fight with Kurobe and, of all things, hit him over the head.  As a samurai, this was an outrageous act that would have led to a duel.  However, Kurobe endured patiently and remained silent even when he was called a coward.

     Eventually, when the battle began, Kurobe fought bravely and achieved military success.  Having received the letter of commendation from Yoshinobu, Kurobe immediately went to Shichiemon, who had not achieved anything in Osaka.  His usual violent behavior was completely useless.

     Kurobei said, "The reason I once endured shame was so that I could offer my life to the lord at a time like this.  And now, I have achieved something and received this letter of commendation.  You can take advantage of this letter."  Kurobe slapped Shichiemon on the head with the letter of commendation.  Shichiemon, who was called a demon, hung his head and bowed his head in apology.

     The people in the domain had always rumored that if there was a war, Shichiemon would be the first to achieve something.  When they heard this story, they discussed how surprising it was.

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