His life could come from today’s headlines—controversial, charismatic and polarizing, with a life filled with tabloid worthy scandals. Rev. Haya Akegarasu (1877-1954) became a renowned Buddhist whose teachings were strongly influenced by Manshi Kiyozawa, whose own experiential approach modernized Jodo Shinshu. Akegarasu eventually held the top administrative post in the Higashi Honganji denomination. Continue reading “Akegarasu: Buddhist poet”
eBOOK: When We Entrust to the Long Held Wish
By Daiei Kaneko
Jodo Shinshu Buddhism can seem mystifying and irrelevant with abstract jargon and symbolism. Imagine explaining to a group English speaking diplomats, scholars and clergy. Continue reading “eBOOK: When We Entrust to the Long Held Wish”
Shinran Bound and Gagged (And Finally Released)
By Rev. Patti Nakai
“What the heck,” a newcomer may wonder after hearing a common explanation of Jodo Shinshu. The explanation? “Just recite Namo Amida Butsu and rebirth after death is guaranteed in a bejeweled paradise called Pure Land.” Continue reading “Shinran Bound and Gagged (And Finally Released)”
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”
Kiyozawa: What was Shinran thinking?
By Rev. Wayne Yokoyama
Someday I hope Shinshu teacher Manshi Kiyozawa will be widely recognized as a truly brilliant mind of the modern era. He not only entered the Shinshu Otani-ha (Higashi Honganji) denomination from the outside, his influence on religious thought extends far beyond his native Japan.
Daiei Kaneko’s Guide to Shin Buddhism
Buddhist scholar Daiei Kaneko represents a modern understanding of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, although he’s not widely known in the West. An e-book, “A Thinking Person’s Guide to Shin Buddhism,” captures his thinking and helps explain Shinshu in contemporary terms. Continue reading “Daiei Kaneko’s Guide to Shin Buddhism”