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”
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”
Call it Karma
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”
Chief Administrator: New Year Greeting
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”
Fleeting World, Burning House
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”
Buddha’s World: Vast Ocean of One Taste
By Rev. Miki Nakura
Shakyamuni Buddha, founder of Buddhism said, “Our lifetime is filled with suffering.” He sought a path to free our selves from suffering. He experienced total calmness through deep sitting meditation, awakening to universal truth leading to spiritual freedom. I think this kind of meditation can help us overcome our differences in today’s world. Continue reading “Buddha’s World: Vast Ocean of One Taste”