Note 31 — LAFCADIO HEARN (continued 3)
Reading edition
The implication is that he has hastily promised more than he wishes to perform. Emma, or Yemma (Sansc. Yama), is the Lord of Hell and Judge of Souls; and, as depicted in Buddhist sculpture and painting, is more than fearful to look upon. There is an evident reference in this song to the Buddhist proverb: Karu-toki no Jizō-gao; nasu-toki no Emma-gao ("Borrowing-time, the face of Jizō; repaying-time, the face of Emma").