Jodo Shinshu Buddhism for everyone
Understanding Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in modern terms began largely thanks to certain influential teachers from the Higashi Honganji denomination. They include Manshi Kiyozawa, Ryojin Soga and Daiei Kaneko. Perhaps the most colorful and controversial was Rev. Haya Akegarasu. Continue reading “Buddhist Revolutionary: Haya Akegarasu”
By Rev. Ken Yamada
What do Buddhists “believe?” It’s a fair question but I think the wrong one. Continue reading “Seeing is Understanding”
Rev. Miki Nakura exudes the peaceful bearing one expects of a Buddhist priest. He closes his eyes, ponders a question, and answers slowly with a slight Japanese accent. Every day, he meditates. Such calmness belies a personal history beset by tragedy, dashed dreams and a deep resentment against his mother. At one time, he thought, my mother is “my enemy.” Continue reading “My Mother was My Enemy”
By Rev. Ken Yamada
What does Jodo Shinshu say about social and political activism? An important question amid today’s social unrest. Continue reading “Protests, Patriotism, and Jodo Shinshu”
Perhaps the scariest creature you may find in a Jodo Shinshu temple is the dragon. Continue reading “Buddhist symbols: Dragons, Serpents, Snakes”
by Rev. Ken Yamada
In these tough times, giving to others is more important than ever. Buddhism teaches “dana” or charity—helping others. Today, wearing a mask to prevent the Covid-19 virus from spreading may be considered “dana,” because we’re helping to protect others. Yet, people don’t wear masks, thinking first about themselves and personal freedom. Continue reading “Dana: Meaning of Giving”