Emma-O', derived from the Sanskrit Yama (see Yama), is the Japanese Buddhist Lord of Jigoku, or Hell (see Jigoku). Emma judges souls and places them in hells appropriate to their crimes. In this context there are a total of eight hells. These have been described by people who were for one reason or another released from punishment. The hells are a popular subject for Japanese scrolls. Emma's primary enemy is Jizō (see Jizō), always a supporter of the dead souls against Emma and usually the victor over his dark adversary. As Jizō's popularity has grown and Emma's diminished, Emma has become a demon.
