I happened to be born in Japan, grew up in a Jodo Shinshu temple, and was culturally influenced by that environment.
And I naturally came to think of myself as a Buddhist and accepted its values and ways of thinking.
However, through my many experiences, I have come to understand that there are many different religious cultures in the world,
and at the same time, I have come to recognize the uniqueness of Buddhism.
In today’s globalizing society, it seems that I must re-recognize my identity as a Buddhist monk.
I thought again about what it is about my own faith that I find so appealing.
I will try to summarize it below.
［ about Buddhism ］
It shows how to live a better life by perceiving the world in accordance with the laws of nature.
［ about Mahayana thought ］
It shows an existential and practical way of being and the possibility of infinite growth.
［ about Japanese Buddhism ］
It shows a way of life that aims to balance independence and coexistence, individuality and cooperation.
［ about Jodo Shinshu ］
It provides guidance for living and dying in a positive way.
In general society, Buddhism is often perceived as being ceremonial, authoritative, and conventional.
However, the Buddhism that I experience daily is quite different from that image.
I believe that Buddhism is based on tolerance of differences between others and a free and peaceful way of life.
That’s the kind of Buddhism I like.
The world exists on the premise that it is inherently diverse.
I think it is natural that there are various religions and sects.
I believe that we should not deny the beliefs of others unless there are serious social issues involved.
And I believe that we will never know the truth by denying others.
I believe in Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, but I would never try to force it on anyone.
I believe that religion should be an individual’s freedom.
However, I also want to share with others the universal awareness I have gained through my own faith.
I also want to share the universal awareness you have gained.
And I would be glad if we could have empathy with each other.
[ Chapter1 ]
HANAMATSURI -The flower festival-［The Beginnings of Buddhism］
[ Chapter2 ]
Anyone can become a Buddha, it’s depending on you.［Mahayana thought］
[ Chapter3 ]
The concept of JAPAN is ”WA (harmony and peace)”. ［Japanese Buddhism］
[ Chapter4 ]
My Shin Buddhism［Jodo Shinshu］
[ Chapter5 ]
Japanese Funerals［The Institutional background of Buddhism］
[ Chapter6 ]
ARIGATOU and OKAGESAMA［Changing and Interdependence］
[ Chapter7 ]
Buddhism on the move［Adapt and Transform］