Benkei on the Bridge

Benkei on the Bridge (橋弁慶, Hashi Benkei) is a Japanese Noh play from the 15th century, by Hiyoshi Sa-ami Yasukiyo.

[1] The play centres around the encounter between the giant warrior monk Benkei and the youthful Minamoto no Yoshitsune, in which the slighter and younger man defeated the elder.

[2] The hand-to-hand bridge combat forged a lasting bond between the pair.

[3] Thereafter Benkei served as Yoshitsune’s second in command[4] - as what Basho would describe as “his faithful retainer, Benkei”.

[5] Buson created a haiku and a haiku painting, Benkei and Young Bull, around the themes of the play, quoting from it in his haiku:[6] Snow, moon, and blossoms - And then a pledge for three lives, Faith and loyalty