Jodo Shinshu Buddhism for everyone
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)”
Summer is for ghost stories in Japan, sending chills down spines on hot summer nights. Consider this ghost story involving Shinran Shonin. Continue reading “Ghost Stories and Shinran”
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”
By Joseph Deschenes
Karma sent me to Japan. At least that’s how I felt after visiting Higashi Honganji’s main temple in Kyoto. And karma allowed me to encounter Shinran Shonin and Jodo Shinshu. Continue reading “Call it Karma”
By Chief Administrator Hiroshi Tajima, , Shinshū Ōtani-ha (Higashi Honganji)
I extend my warmest New Year’s greetings to all of you in our overseas districts, which includes North America, Hawaii and Brazil. I also thank you from the bottom of my heart for the support and understanding you continue to give our Sangha. Continue reading “Chief Administrator: New Year Greeting”
By Rev. Frederick Brenion
Ohigan comes twice a year in Spring and Fall. It means “encountering the other shore.” Yet we cannot come to grips with this “other shore” until we stand on this shore’s edge. When we do, we find Ohigan is not just twice a year. It is every moment of our lives. Continue reading “Fleeting World, Burning House”