This is the largest temple bell in the State of Hawaii. Made of bronze, it weighs approximately 3,000 pounds. One one side (ocean side), written in Chinese characters, are the words "Imin Hyakunen No Kane" The Centennial Memorial Bell for the First Japanese Immigrants to Hawaii.
On the other side, in similar characters are the words, "Namu Amida Butsu" - the Jodo "Prayer". The small engraved characters are names of many donors, both living and deceased, who have unselfishly given their time and effort for the Mission as well as monetary gifts toward the completion of the Bell Tower.
At the Lahaina Jodo Mission, this bell is rung eleven times each evening at 8 o'clock.
The first three rings are for:
I go to the Buddha for guidance; I go to the Dhamma (the teaching of the Buddha) for guidance; I go to the Sangha (Brotherhood) for guidance.
The next eight rings represent the Eight-Fold Pathway to Righteousness:
Right Understanding; Right Purpose;, Right Speech; Right Conduct; Right Livelihood; Right Endeavor; Right Thought; and Right Meditation.
