An international conference for women and Jodo Shinshu attracted a huge crowd of attendees from various countries. Continue reading “Large Turnout for Buddhist Women’s Conference”
An Ideal Community
By Rev. Noriaki Fujimori
Wouldn’t you like to live in an ideal community? What makes a community ideal? Continue reading “An Ideal Community”
Shared History: Buddhists and Muslims
I first noticed what the Muslim prayer hall and our Buddhist temple had in common: no sign.
Shinran Shonin Birthday Service
In May, a special service commemorates the birthday of Shinran Shonin, revered as the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. For Shinran, the Buddhist path requires a true and honest introspection of one’s own limitations and ignorance, which is an essential step towards spiritual liberation and awakening, and is a path that anyone can follow. Continue reading “Shinran Shonin Birthday Service”
Black Holes and Kiyozawa
By Rev. Steven Toyoshima
A black hole in outer space, once impossible to see, was just seen by a new telescope. Likewise, the great Buddhist teacher Manshi Kiyozawa tells us: use a telescope to see yourself. Continue reading “Black Holes and Kiyozawa”
Awakening and Shinjin Awareness
By Rev. Kenjun Kawawata
When the one thought-moment of joy arises,
Nirvana is attained without severing blind passions;
When ignorant and wise, even grave offenders and slanderers of the dharma,
All alike turn and enter shinjin,
They are like waters that, on entering the ocean, become one in taste with it.
(excerpt from Shoshinge, written by Shinran Shonin)
Shinran Shonin says the moment we rejoice with shinjin, deep spiritual awareness, we attain Nirvana without shedding our blind passions. Shinjin means truly awakening to the Buddha’s wisdom and compassion. Continue reading “Awakening and Shinjin Awareness”