About Buddhism, Scripture and Mahayana Buddhist Sects

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Buddhism Overview

Buddhism, one of the world’s three major religions (Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism), was founded by Sakyamuni (Gautama Siddhartha) and is believed to have originated in India around the 6th century BC. This makes it the oldest religion in comparison to Christianity, which originated around the 1st century A.D., and Islam, which originated around 600 A.D. Buddhism originated in India and spread throughout Asia. 520 million people, or about 7% of the world’s population, are Buddhists (adherents). This is one-fifth to one-third less than Christianity, which has about 2.4 billion adherents, and Islam, which has about 1.8 billion adherents. This may be due to the fact that Hinduism, a comprehensive religion indigenous to India, has become dominant in India, the birthplace of Buddhism, and has almost disappeared.

The worldview of Buddhism is based on the ideas of samsara and liberation, the worldview of India, where the Buddha was born. The life of a human being is suffering, and he or she suffers endlessly in samsara, the eternal cycle of suffering. The goal of early Buddhism was to attain liberation from suffering through practice, which is known as “Shakyamuni’s teaching.

In Buddhism, it is believed that unless one is liberated from the world of the lost, one will reincarnate in the next incarnation, depending on the infinite number of previous lives, karma before birth, and the state of mind at the time of death. Buddhism also holds the theory of cause and effect to be the basic principle that causes and effects exist in the formation of things. All phenomena are caused by causes, and here, such phenomena as “the occurrence of things by chance,” “the sudden appearance of things (without causes),” and “creation by God” are denied.

The theory of karma divides human actions into good deeds and bad deeds (good causes and bad causes and bad deeds) according to the content of the karma, and encourages people to accumulate good deeds without doing bad ones. He also discusses reincarnation, which is the reward for the accumulation of karma in each individual life, and says that as long as one does not leave the worldly life and attain nirvana (enlightenment), all life will continue in this cycle indefinitely.

The ideas of reincarnation, transmigration, and liberation are universal elements in religions and philosophies of Indian origin, but Buddhism is characterized by its reorganization of reincarnation and liberation based on causal theory. To live is suffering, and the world of man is full of suffering. And since all things are based on cause and effect, there is a cause for people’s suffering. Therefore, if the cause of suffering is removed, one can escape from suffering. This is the theory of liberation in Buddhism.

Furthermore, Buddhism is not only a religion, but also offers philosophical and psychological teachings and practical guidelines, emphasizing personal experience and self-exploration, and encouraging individual practice and the path to enlightenment. Believers in Buddhism have faith in and respect for Buddhist practitioners such as buddhas and bodhisattvas, and they observe their own minds through practices such as meditation, nembutsu, and asceticism in pursuit of liberation from suffering and the path to enlightenment.

Buddhism originated in India and spread throughout Asia, where various sects and teachings have developed. The major sects include Theravada Buddhism (Theravada), Mahayana Buddhism (Mahayana), Zen Buddhism (Zen), Jodoshu (Pure Land Buddhism), and Shingon Buddhism (Shingon). These developments transformed Buddhism into one that offered a wide range of values, not only in the pursuit of individual happiness and benefit to others, but also in addressing social issues and pursuing world peace.

Below I would like to describe this expansion of Buddhism based on the relevant sutras.

About Buddhism and Scripture

Buddhism is a religion based on the teachings of the Buddha, and sutras (kyoten) are texts or literature that compile Buddhist teachings and doctrines. Sutras, also called Buddhist scriptures, contain doctrines and practices that are important guidelines for Buddhists. Buddhist scriptures may have different forms and names depending on language and region, but in general they can be categorized as follows

• Sanzang: Buddhist sutras are broadly divided into three divisions. These are called the Sanzo. Specifically, the three divisions are the Rituryo (the teaching of the precepts), the Kyozo (the teaching of Buddhist doctrine and scriptures), and the Ronzo (the exposition of Buddhist doctrine and philosophy).
• Mahayana sutras: Mahayana sutras refer to scriptures that contain the teachings of Mahayana Buddhism. Representative Mahayana scriptures include the Lotus Sutra, the Heart Sutra, and the Nirvana Sutra.
• Hinayana scriptures: Hinayana scriptures are scriptures that contain the teachings of Hinayana Buddhism. Representative Hinayana scriptures include the Agon Sutra and the Middle Agon Sutra.

Hinayana Buddhism

The sect based on the teachings of the Buddha is called Hinayana Buddhism. Hinayana Buddhism is a term used to describe a branch of Buddhism that is opposed to Mahayana Buddhism (the Mahayana branch). Hinayana Buddhism is mainly based on the teachings of Sakyamuni Buddha and emphasizes the original texts such as the Agong Sutra and the Zhuangzibe. Its teachings focus primarily on personal practice and the pursuit of enlightenment, and aim to help people eliminate their suffering and pursue liberation (nirvana).

Mahayana practitioners observe precepts such as the Five Precepts and the Ten Good Precepts, and practice the five moral codes of right view, right thought, right speech, right action, and right life. It also observes one’s own mind through practices such as meditation and devotion, and pursues the state of enlightenment. Because of its emphasis on individual liberation, Hinayana Buddhism limits to some extent the salvific activities of bodhisattvas and altruistic practices. In contrast, Mahayana Buddhism, discussed below, emphasizes the bodhisattva path and focuses on vast salvific activities and the benefit of others.

However, the boundary between Mahayana and Lesser Vehicle Buddhism is not always clear. In fact, Buddhist sects and teachings combine various elements and do not fit entirely into any particular classification.

Lesser Vehicle Buddhism is found primarily in Theravada Buddhism (Theravada), the Nikāyas (Nikāya), and the Japanese Kyūshūron (Kyūshūron). Even after the spread of Mahayana Buddhism, the Lesser Vehicle persists in some areas and is practiced by practitioners who pursue personal liberation.

Avatamska sutra

The Agong Sutra is a compilation of the teachings of Sakyamuni Buddha (Shaka) and a record of Buddhist doctrines and practices, and is one of the most important Buddhist scriptures that convey the teachings of Mahayana Buddhism.

The Agong Sutra, a text written in Pali, was emphasized as a scripture of Theravada Buddhism, and was translated into Chinese as the Agong Sutra or Abhidharma Agong Sutra, which was later introduced to Japan and translated into Japanese as the Agong Sutra.

The Agongkyō contains detailed descriptions of the Buddha’s teachings, including many doctrines and practices. Some of the more characteristic teachings are discussed below.

• The Four Noble Truths: The Agong Sutra explains in detail the four sacred truths (suffering, concentration, extinction, and the Way). The Buddha sees human suffering as a cause and shows the way to resolve it. The Four Noble Truths are: suffering (kutai, the suffering of life), concentration (shūtai, the cause of suffering), extinction (metsutai, the resolution of suffering), and the way (dōtai, the way to resolve suffering). These represent the essence and cause of suffering and the path to liberation from suffering as taught by Buddha Shakyamuni.
• The Eightfold Path: Shakyamuni Buddha taught a path of practice called the Eightfold Path. It consists of the eight elements of right view, right thought, right speech, right action, right life, right diligence, right intention, and right decision, and is the path of pursuing liberation from suffering and enlightenment through the understanding of truth and moral conduct.
• The Agong Sutra breaks down human existence into five elements (color (body), reception (mind), thought (feelings and emotions), action (behavior), and awareness (consciousness)), and explains that these elements interact with each other to exist. This is a detailed explanation of the causal theory of cause and effect that underlies the formation of things in Buddhism.
• Twelve causal links: The Agon-Tsutra explains samsara, the cycle of birth and death, in terms of twelve causal links. Causes and conditions are the causes and conditions that create a chain of suffering, and breaking these causes and conditions is said to open the way to liberation.
• Precepts: The Agong Sutra describes in detail the precepts for monastic orders and practitioners. The precepts provide ethical norms and guidelines for behavior, and are considered the basis for the path to enlightenment.
• Teaching of impermanence: The Buddha taught the doctrine of Shogyo Mujo, or the impermanence of all actions. This refers to the fact that all phenomena and existence are constantly changing and are not fixed forever. This teaching is important for understanding the true nature of reality, transcending attachment and lack of clarity, which are the root causes of suffering.
• The teaching of no-self: The Buddha taught the doctrine of shobo-muga, or “the absence of self. This refers to the fact that all beings and phenomena do not have fixed, independent entities, but exist in interconnectedness. This teaching is important to free oneself from self-centered attachments and to open oneself to the state of no-self.
• Teaching of Compassion: The Buddha strongly emphasizes the spirit of jhihi or altruism. This emphasizes understanding and relieving the suffering of others. He wished to save all sentient beings, and to this end he taught and demonstrated compassionate deeds.

The Agong Sutra is the fundamental scripture of the Lesser Vehicle Buddhism and has become an important document for understanding Buddhist teachings and practices, and is considered one of the scriptures that influenced the development of Mahayana Buddhism. The Buddha’s teachings also provide fundamental answers to questions of human suffering, happiness, life and death, and focus not only on individual practice and the pursuit of enlightenment, but also on compassion and benefit for others. These teachings form the foundation of Buddhism and have greatly influenced the development of various sects and teachings.

Mahayana Buddhism

Mahayana Buddhism is one of the major schools of Buddhism, which began to spread around the first century B.C., especially in East Asia. Mahayana Buddhism inherited and further developed the teachings of the Buddha (Sakyamuni), offering a wide range of teachings and methods of practice.

One of the characteristics of Mahayana Buddhism is the concept of the “bodhisattva path,” which means “one who has a wish to be enlightened,” and who chooses the path of enlightenment for the sake of others. In Mahayana Buddhism, the path of the bodhisattva is emphasized, encouraging the pursuit not only of one’s own enlightenment, but also of the salvation and benefit of others.

Mahayana Buddhism is also characterized by the appearance of many bodhisattvas and buddhas (tathagatas). This is based on the belief that not only Sakyamuni but also countless Buddhas and Bodhisattvas preach teachings out of compassion and seek to save people, which is why belief in and worship of Bodhisattvas and Buddhas is so prevalent, and seeking their blessings and salvation is common.

Furthermore, Mahayana Buddhism also emphasizes the pursuit of wisdom (prajna). Wisdom would be the knowledge and insight to understand the truth and to be free from vexations and hesitations. For this reason, the Prajnaparamita Sutra (Heart Sutra) and other sutras and treatises are considered important teachings of Mahayana Buddhism, and practitioners strive to develop wisdom.

Furthermore, compassion (grief) is also an important value in Mahayana Buddhism. Those who follow the bodhisattva path are expected to understand the suffering of others and to have compassion. Compassion is the pursuit of compassion and benefit for others, and Buddhists perform deeds and meditate to cultivate compassion.

Mahayana Buddhism has developed into a variety of schools and sects, including the Chinese Esoteric Buddhism and Zen Buddhism, the Japanese Jōdo and Tendai sects, and the Korean Kegon sect, each of which has its own scriptures, practices, and rituals, but all share the basic teachings and principles of Mahayana Buddhism.

Mahayana Buddhism is a branch of Buddhism that has developed from the teachings of the Sakyamuni (Shaka). As mentioned above, Shakyamuni’s teachings, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Twelve Causes, describe human suffering, its causes, and methods for transcending suffering, and his teachings emphasize the liberation of people from suffering and the disclosure of enlightenment, as well as the pursuit of individual suffering and the salvation of all living beings. It places great emphasis on this.

In contrast, Mahayana Buddhism developed from the teachings of the Buddha, and in addition to enlightenment, it also emphasizes the pursuit of benefit and salvation for others. In order to spread the teachings of Buddhism to a wider public, Mahayana Buddhism introduced the idea that beings such as buddhas and bodhisattvas continue to exist for the purpose of salvation even after enlightenment.

Mahayana Buddhism has many sutras, the most famous of which are the Heart Sutra and the Lotus Sutra. The Heart Sutra is a scripture that seeks enlightenment and understanding of the true nature of existence, and the Lotus Sutra is a scripture that explains the teachings of the three treasures of the Lotus Sutra (Buddha, Dharma, and priest) and the true nature of Buddhahood.

Mahayana Buddhism is a sect that aims to help people realize their own potential and Buddha nature, and to understand the true nature of the self and the universe as well as the salvation of others. It emphasizes not only individual practice and the pursuit of enlightenment, but also compassion and benefit for others, or philosophical thought.

Hosso sect, Kegon sect

The use of Buddhism in ancient Japan was primarily as an aspect of philosophical thought rather than for the salvation of individuals or others, and it was used as an ideological foundation for the management of the state using them. Therefore, the philosophical aspect of Mahayana Buddhism was something that was considered important.

The six Nanto Roku-sects were such Buddhist sects in ancient Japan during the Nara period (710-794). Buddhism flourished in Japan during the Nara period (710-794), and many sects emerged. Among them, the six Nanto Roku-shu refer to six major sects, which developed around the capital city of Nara (Nanto). The Hosho-shu and Kegon-shu are two of the six Nanto sects, which emphasize the Kegon-kyo Sutra and other sutras, and emphasize the philosophical concept of religion.

About the Kegon-kyo Sutra

The Kegon Sutra is one of the most important scriptures in Mahayana Buddhism, officially known as the Avataṃsaka Sūtra. The Avatamsaka Sūtra expresses the wisdom and compassion-based teachings of the Buddha (Sakyamuni) from a comprehensive and cosmic perspective.

The Hua Yan Sutra is a very long and complex philosophical text that requires continuous study and interpretation to understand in its entirety. It can be said that this sutra is the scripture that supports the philosophical aspect of Buddhism.

The Hua Yan Sutra aims to analyze the laws and phenomena of the universe and to reveal the Dharma Flower (Hokke) or truth behind them. In this sutra, dialogues and teachings by bodhisattvas (bosatsu) and Buddhas are depicted and addressed to practitioners in their pursuit of wisdom development and enlightenment. The Kegonkyō includes the following teachings

Shobo kuuso: In the Kegonkyō, all phenomena and laws are interdependent and have an empty nature. In other words, it teaches that all phenomena have no fixed substance and are temporary and relative.
Itsukusoku zeta: In the Kegon sutra, one law or phenomenon is said to encompass an infinite number of laws and phenomena. It is taught that one thing embodies innumerable things, and that everything exists at one point in the universe.
Isshin-dotai: The Kegon Sutra states that all beings originate from one mind and that all beings share one essence. Isshin refers to the true nature or Buddha nature, and all sentient beings are said to possess this essence.

The Kegon Sutra is related to esoteric Buddhism (mikkyō), which is discussed below, but the Kegon Sutra itself is not esoteric. However, some aspects of Kegon thought have been incorporated into esoteric Buddhism and have influenced esoteric teachings and practices.

Central to the teachings of the Kegon Sutra is the idea of “all the Dharma Realms,” which is the idea that the entire universe exists in interdependence and that all phenomena are interrelated. Within the all-encompassing Dharma Realm, there is infinite Buddhahood, and all things are inherently endowed with Buddhahood.

In the Hua Yan Sutra, the Buddha aims to save all sentient beings through his wisdom and compassion. In the sutra, the practice of bodhisattvas (enlightened persons), the path to enlightenment, and the merits and virtues of the Buddha are explained in detail. By studying the teachings of the Hua Yan Sutra, sentient beings are supposed to develop wisdom and compassion and be freed from vexations and delusions.

Through its detailed system of thought and extensive teachings, the Kegonkyō Sutra is respected as an important scripture in China, Japan, and other countries. It became the basis of national thought in ancient Japan, and the Todaiji Rushanabutsu statue (the Great Buddha of Nara) and local Kokubunji temples were built based on its ideas. The Kegon sect, one of the six sects of the Nanto, is a sect that focuses on this sutra, and other sects and scholars will also be engaged in the study and interpretation of the Kegon sutra.

The worldview of the Kegon Sutra has also been incorporated into esoteric Buddhist thought, which will be discussed below.

About the Prajnaparamita Sutra

The Prajñāpāramitā-hṛdaya-sūtra is one of the most important scriptures in Mahayana Buddhism. Its official name is Prajñāpāramitā-hṛdaya-sūtra, and it is said to have been preached by the Buddha (Sakyamuni). The Prajñāpāramitā-hṛdaya-sūtra is a short sutra, yet it succinctly expresses the core teachings and truths of Buddhism.

The word “hannya” in the Heart Sutra means “wisdom” or “enlightened mind” in Sanskrit. The Heart Sutra focuses on developing this mind of wisdom. It states that through the mind of wisdom we can see the truth and be liberated from vexations and delusions.

Central to the teachings of the Prajnaparamita Sutra is the concept of emptiness. Emptiness refers to the understanding that all things have no fixed substance and that all phenomena exist in interdependence. In the Prajnaparamita Sutra, the well-known phrase “shikisoku zeku” (color equals emptiness) indicates that material phenomena (colors) themselves have no substance and are empty.

The Prajnaparamita Sutra also includes the teaching that “everything is suffering. This means that all living beings experience suffering. This teaching connects people’s awareness of suffering and imperfection to their ability to progress on the path to enlightenment.

The Prajnaparamita Sutra contains a concise yet profound teaching that can be interpreted and understood in a variety of ways, and practitioners aim to develop a mind of wisdom and experience truth by reciting the Prajnaparamita Sutra or by using it as a meditation object. The teachings of the Prajnaparamita Sutra are important in Mahayana Buddhism and are studied and practiced by many sects.

About Tendai Shu

The Tendai sect of Buddhism was founded by Saicho, a Buddhist monk in the early Heian period. Saicho is known to have practiced esoteric Buddhism at Mount Tendai in China, and upon his return to Japan, he spread the teachings of Mount Tendai in Japan.

The teachings of the Tendai sect are based on the teachings of Mahayana Buddhism. The Tendai sect uses the Lotus Sutra as its fundamental scripture and aims for the salvation of all sentient beings. In Tendai Buddhism, the bodhisattva Mangyo Bosatsu (Bodhisattva Mangyo) is considered to be particularly important. Mangyo Bosatsu is said to be the one who shows the way to relieve the suffering of all sentient beings and to achieve the attainment of Buddhahood.

The Tendai sect has many temples in the Japanese Buddhist world, especially Enryaku-ji Temple in Kyoto, which is considered to be the head temple of the sect. The Tendai sect has had a great influence on Japanese Buddhist culture and art, and its teachings have been exchanged and fused with those of other sects, making it an important part of Japanese Buddhism as a whole.

Lotus Sutra

The Lotus Sutra is one of the most important scriptures in Mahayana Buddhism. Its official name is “Myōhō Renge Kyō,” and it is said to have been preached by the Buddha. The Lotus Sutra is respected and believed in by many religious sects and denominations.

The Lotus Sutra emphasizes three treasures, called the “three treasures of the Lotus Sutra (Hokke-sambo),” as the hallmark of its teachings. These are the “Buddhist treasure,” the “Dharma treasure,” and the “priestly treasure.

Here, the “buddha treasure” refers to the Buddha himself, the being who attained enlightenment and taught the Buddha’s teachings. In the Lotus Sutra, the Buddha is praised as a being who widely disclosed truths not revealed in other scriptures.

Next, “Dharma treasure” refers to the Lotus Sutra itself, which encompasses the teachings of many bodhisattvas and Buddhas and teaches the universal teaching that all phenomena have Buddha nature. It is said that by believing in, reciting, and practicing this sutra, the path to enlightenment is opened.

Finally, the term “monk treasure” refers to practitioners of Buddhism, such as practitioners and monks. The Lotus Sutra emphasizes the importance of practitioners’ role in spreading Buddhism by striving for enlightenment based on the teachings of the sutras.

One of the most important teachings in the Lotus Sutra is the concept of “Ichijyo. According to the Lotus Sutra, this is the only way for all sentient beings (all people) to attain enlightenment, and according to the Ichijyo teaching, all phenomena and sentient beings are inherently endowed with the Buddha nature and capable of attaining enlightenment.

The Lotus Sutra is widely read and practiced by many people, and various religious sects and orders have developed their own beliefs and practices based on the Lotus Sutra.

Pure Land teachings

Jodo-kyo is one of the Buddhist sects that expanded the salvation aspect of Buddhism, focusing on beliefs and practices that pursue rebirth in the Western Pure Land (Amida Pure Land). Pure Land Buddhism developed mainly in Japan, where there are several sects such as Jodo-shu and Shinshu.

The basic teachings of Pure Land Buddhism depend on faith in Amida Buddha and his works. Amida Buddha is a compassionate Buddha who possesses infinite wisdom and merit. In Pure Land Buddhism, one hopes to be reborn in the Western Pure Land through the saving power of this Buddha of boundless wisdom and merit, and to attain enlightenment there.

The central teaching of Pure Land Buddhism is “altruism. Believers in Pure Land Buddhism believe that it is difficult to attain enlightenment on one’s own, so they focus on reciting Amida Buddha’s name “Namu Amida Butsu” and making a wish for rebirth in the Pure Land.

In Pure Land Buddhism, the ultimate goal is to pass away to the Pure Land (Paradise), which is created by Amida Buddha’s vow. The Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is a place where there is no suffering or vexation, and where the Buddha Dharma is fully realized. In Pure Land Buddhism, nembutsu plays an important role. Nembutsu refers to the chanting of Amida Buddha’s name, “Namu Amida Butsu” in one’s mind. By chanting the Amida Buddha, believers deepen their connection with Amida Buddha and prepare themselves for rebirth.

Widely accepted as a popular religion, Pure Land Buddhism is characterized by its concise expression of Buddhist teachings and its opening of the path to salvation, and is practiced by many people as a religious practice that seeks salvation and security through faith in Amida Buddha and Nembutsu practice.

Jodo (sect)

The Jodo sect is one of the most influential sects of the Pure Land Buddhism, especially in Japan. The founder of the Jodo sect is considered to be Honen. Honen taught that sentient beings could be liberated from the suffering of life and death by receiving salvation from Amida Buddha through the Nembutsu, and he emphasized the importance of believing in the Pure Land and receiving salvation without relying on one’s own efforts or practice.

In the Pure Land sect, Buddhist practice and the practice of pious devotion are centered on seeking rebirth in the Pure Land. Temples and priests are also important, and believers participate in Buddhist prayers and Buddhist memorial services at temples to learn the teachings. The Jodo sect has a wide following in Japan, and its teachings are deeply rooted in Japanese culture and art. The teachings of Jodo-shu are also deeply rooted in Japanese culture and art, and its teachings give people peace of mind and hope, making it a popular religion among many people.

Jodo Shinshu (offshoot of the Jodo sect)

Jodo Shinshu is a sect of Pure Land Buddhism, founded by a monk and thinker named Shinran and widely followed in Japan.

The teachings of Jodo Shinshu are based on Shinran’s belief in the salvation of Amida Buddha and his wish to be reborn and attain enlightenment. While acknowledging the helplessness and sinfulness of human beings, Shinran was convinced that all sentient beings could be saved through the infinite mercy of Amida Buddha. For this reason, Shinran advocated the teaching of “altruism,” which teaches that it is important to rely on Amida Buddha’s salvation rather than one’s own efforts or practice.

In Jodo Shinshu, the recitation of the Amida Buddha’s name through the recitation of the Amida Buddha’s name is central to the practice, and by repeatedly reciting “Namu Amida Buddha,” one hopes to rely on Amida Buddha’s mercy and to be reborn in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Jodo Shinshu places great emphasis on faith, respecting the individual’s inner piety, and through Shinran’s teachings, human beings are expected to accept their true selves and develop compassion and empathy for others. This would mean that Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the importance of compassion and benefit for others, which is very different from that of the Lesser Vehicle Buddhism.

Jodo Shinshu is popular among the masses as the religion of the common people and has historically had many followers. Shinran’s teachings are deeply rooted in Japanese culture and history and have been influential in the fields of religion, philosophy, literature, and art. In addition, many Jodo Shinshu temples still exist today, where believers gather to study the teachings and chant the nembutsu together to seek salvation.

About the “Sutra of Immeasurable Life,” the “Sutra of Amitabha,” and the “Sutra of Amitabha

The Muryōjyūkyō, Kanmuryōjyūkyō, and Amida-kyō are all considered important scriptures in Pure Land Buddhism, such as Jōdo Sect and Jōdo Shinshū. These sutras contain teachings on belief in Amida Buddha and salvation in the Pure Land. Each of these sutras is described below.

• The Amida Sutra is the scripture that teaches the Amida Buddha’s true wish. The Hongan is a vow made by Amida Buddha out of his infinite compassion and represents the salvation of sentient beings. In this sutra, Amida Buddha’s vow for the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss and the method of saving sentient beings in the Pure Land of Bliss are explained.
• The Kanmuryōjukyō is an important scripture in the Kegon school of Buddhism. The Kanmuryōjukyō describes a practice called the Bodhisattva View, which is a method of liberation from the suffering of sentient beings. It also focuses on the awakening of bodhisattvas and the development of wisdom.
• The Amida Kyō (Amida Sutra) is a scripture that praises Amida Buddha and his saving power. The sutra emphasizes the desire for rebirth in the Pure Land of Amida Buddha through faith and remembrance of the Buddha. It states that through Amida Buddha’s mercy and saving power, sentient beings can attain peace and enlightenment in the Pure Land.

About Esoteric Buddhism

Esoteric Buddhism (mikkyō) is a branch of Buddhist teaching that came primarily from India and China and was accepted in Japan. Esoteric Buddhism combines Buddhist teachings with secret or mystical elements and aims to pursue liberation or enlightenment through direct experience and practice. Esoteric Buddhism includes not only theoretical teachings, but also ritual and magical elements, and is unique among Buddhist sects in its doctrines and practices. Some of the distinctive elements of esoteric Buddhism include the following

• Chanting: Esoteric Buddhism uses the power of special sounds and words, such as mantras and darani (darani), to develop Buddhahood and attain enlightenment. These mantras and darani are the names and prayers of specific Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, which are believed to have spiritual power and purifying effects when chanted .
• Wisdom and method: Esoteric Buddhism emphasizes the combination of wisdom (wisdoms) and method (gyodo). Wisdom is the understanding of the Buddha nature, and method is the means of practice or cultivation. Esoteric Buddhism pursues the salvation of all sentient beings and the awakening of the Buddha nature through the integration of wisdom and method.
• Tadasana philosophy: Esoteric Buddhism emphasizes Tadasana philosophy, which holds that events and phenomena are projections of consciousness occurring in the mind, and that the root of reality lies within the mind. Esoteric Buddhism seeks enlightenment through direct experience of the essence of truth in the inner mind.
• Mystical Rituals and Symbols: Rituals and symbolic acts play an important role in esoteric Buddhism. These include visual representations such as statues, Buddhist paintings, and Buddhist ritual objects, as well as ritual actions such as hand seals (insho) and giki (giki). These rituals and symbols have religious significance and serve to deepen the religious experience for believers.

Esoteric Buddhism is a sect that pursues Buddhist teachings in a more direct and practical manner. Each sect has its own unique characteristics and practices, and it is difficult to give a comprehensive description of general esoteric doctrines and practices, but the above elements are considered to be general characteristics of esoteric Buddhism.

Shingon (Sino-Japanese esoteric Buddhism, originating in the eighth century)

The Shingon sect is one of the Buddhist sects in Japan and is based on esoteric Buddhism. Shingon is a branch of Mahayana Buddhism, but has its own doctrines and practices, emphasizing esoteric teachings and practices. The Shingon sect was founded by Kukai, also known as Kobo-Daishi, who studied esoteric teachings in China and India and established the Shingon sect upon his return to Japan. He introduced esoteric doctrines and practices to Japan, developed the doctrines and practices of the Shingon sect, and he also opened Koyasan, the head temple of the Shingon sect, which serves as the head temple of the Shingon sect.

Shingon teachings emphasize the development of buddhahood and the pursuit of enlightenment mainly through the use of secret words, phrases, and special incantations (shingon) called “mantras,” which are the names and prayers of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, and by reciting these mantras, one can embody the laws and truths of the universe and achieve self It is believed that recitation of the mantra embodies the laws and truths of the universe and promotes one’s inner transformation and awakening.

In Shingon Buddhism, practitioners aim to develop their Buddha nature and attain enlightenment through the recitation of the Shingon mantra and the Nembutsu method of incantation. In addition, rituals and events play an important role in the practice of Shingon Buddhism. In particular, practitioners study under and receive instruction from masters who pass on the secret teachings of Shingon.

The Shingon sect has many temples and followers in Japan, and Koyasan in particular, as the center of the Shingon sect, is an important place for ascetic practices and the training of ascetic practitioners. The Shingon sect is widely accepted by the general public and ascetic practitioners alike, as it pursues direct enlightenment and liberation through the esoteric teachings.

About Zen Buddhism

Zen Buddhism is a sect of Buddhism that developed in Japan based on the Chinese Zen sect (Chan-zhuang). Zen Buddhism emphasizes the pursuit of enlightenment through direct experience and practice, with zazen, or seated meditation, as its central practice.

Zen Buddhism aims to pursue truth through intuitive experience and direct dialogue, free from thoughts and concepts, and Zen teachings emphasize the importance of realizing truth through direct experience rather than through words and theories. For this reason, Zen practitioners quiet their minds through zazen and pursue direct awakening or enlightenment through intuitive experience.

The teachings of Zen Buddhism are practiced through three main methods of practice: zazen, mondō, and kōan.

• Zazen: Zazen is a meditation practice in which one sits and quietly concentrates on one’s breathing to quiet the vibrations of the mind. Through zazen, Zen practitioners aim to become directly aware of their true nature and truth. Zazen is practiced at Zen temples and dojos, and may also be practiced in the daily life of individuals.
• Mon-dō: Mon-dō is a form of dialogue between a practitioner and a Zen master. The practitioner asks the Zen master questions about enlightenment and truth. The Zen master tries to guide the practitioner toward enlightenment through illogical answers and intuitive suggestions.
• Koan: A koan is the language of challenges and riddles that facilitate understanding and direct experience of the teachings of Zen Buddhism. The practitioner deepens his or her experience of intuition and enlightenment by continually thinking and questioning the koan.

Zen Buddhism has influenced not only religious practice, but also everyday life, art, and martial arts. Its philosophy and practices are of interest to modern society because of their emphasis on direct experience through stillness and intuition, and Zen teachings aim to pursue the natural state of human nature through concepts such as no-self and sokyosei.

Rinzai school of Buddhism

Rinzai-shu is a Buddhist sect that was introduced to Japan from the Chinese Zen sect (Rinzai-shu) and developed into the Rinzai school of Buddhism. Rinzai Zen emphasizes the pursuit of direct enlightenment through Zen teachings and an intuitive understanding of the nature of reality.

The name Rinzai Zen Buddhism is derived from Rinzai Gigen, a famous Zen Buddhist monk active during the Song Dynasty in China. Rinzai Gigen was known for spreading Zen training methods and teachings, and Eisai, who studied his teachings in China, brought them back to Japan, establishing the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism.

The characteristic method of Rinzai Zen practice is to attain intuitive enlightenment through questions and phrases called koans (koans). Practitioners meditate on koans and phrases given by their Zen masters, find answers through intuition and intuition, and aim to free their minds from wanderings and attachments. Rinzai Zen practitioners may also engage in severe practices (especially in the early Rinzai school), such as whipping and yelling.

Rinzai is widely practiced in Japan, where there are many temples and Zen centers. Rinzai Zen practice is based on meditation, mainly zazen, and the practice of koan. Rinzai is also known as a sect that has greatly influenced Japanese culture and martial arts.

Rinzai Zen teachings aim to pursue truth through direct experience and intuition, and to realize enlightenment in one’s daily actions and thoughts. Through such practice, one is expected to be freed from mental wanderings and attachments, and to directly understand the true self and the true nature of the universe.

Soto school (of Zen Buddhism)

Soto-shu is one of the Japanese Buddhist sects and a branch of Zen Buddhism. Soto Zen was founded by Dogen in the Kamakura period (1185-1333).

Dogen returned to Japan after training in China and became the founder of the Soto sect. In order to spread the teachings of Zen more widely to the general public, he adopted a policy of lessening the rigor and strictness of training and emphasizing zazen, or the practice of Zen in daily life. As a result, Zen practice became widely accepted not only by monks but also by the general public.

The characteristic training method of Soto Zen is zazen, a seated meditation in which the practitioner concentrates on breathing and posture, stills his or her thoughts, and turns his or her attention to the inner workings of the mind. In Soto Zen, this practice of zazen is intended to pursue direct enlightenment or liberation and to exercise wisdom and compassion in daily life.

In Soto Zen, particular emphasis is placed on important Zen scriptures and koans, such as the Shobogenzo and Mumonkan. Koans are used as teaching materials for Zen practitioners to ask questions and discover the truth through intuition and intuition, and Soto Zen practitioners sometimes hold Buddhist events called samu or Zen meditation sessions as part of their training.

Soto Zen is widely practiced in Japan, with many temples and Zen centers. The sect emphasizes the practice of wisdom and compassion in daily life, while focusing on the pursuit of direct enlightenment through the practice of zazen. The teachings of Soto Zen seek to cultivate wisdom and compassion through direct experience of the nature of the self and the truth of the universe through Zen practice.

About the Nirvana Sutra

The Nirvana Sutra is one of the Buddhist scriptures that contains teachings on the death of Buddha (nirvana). Its official name is Mahāparinirvāṇa Sūtra.

The Mahāparinirvāṇa Sūtra is said to be the last teaching of the Buddha and a summary of the main points of his teachings. In the sutra, the Buddha tells his disciples of his imminent death and the importance of passing on his teachings and practice.

The Nirvana Sutra, which contains the account of the Buddha’s death and his final teachings, covers a wide range of topics. The following is a discussion of some of the teachings covered in the sutra.

• The impermanence of the five skandhas: The five skandhas refer to the five elements of body, senses, perception, thought, and consciousness. The Nirvana Sutra emphasizes that these elements are constantly changing and teaches that all existence is impermanent.
• The Four Noble Truths: In the Nirvana Sutra, four truths are considered to be important: the suffering truth, the collection truth, the death truth, and the way truth. Understanding these truths is said to open the way to liberation from suffering.
• Brahma practice: The Nirvana Sutra describes a method of practice called Brahma practice. This refers to the act of being compassionate, wise, and selfless. It is said that the path to enlightenment is opened by practicing this Brahma practice.
• Roku-haramitsu: The Nirvana Sutra stresses the importance of the six perfect virtuous acts called Roku-haramitsu. These are fuse, jikai, ninjoku, shoujin, zenjou, and chie (wisdom). It is said that by practicing these paramitas, one can attain enlightenment.

The Nirvana Sutra is a comprehensive and concrete compilation of Buddhist teachings and is considered a guideline for practicing the Buddha’s teachings. The Nirvana Sutra also holds an important place in Mahayana Buddhism, and is studied and interpreted by many sects and schools.

The teachings of the Nirvana Sutra and those of Zen have some points in common; both emphasize the impermanence of all existence, the practice of the Middle Way, and the understanding of emptiness. Zen practitioners seek to attain a state of no-mind through zazen and directly experience the teachings of the Nirvana Sutra, and Zen practice is closely tied to the teachings of the Nirvana Sutra as a path for pursuing freedom, liberation, and direct awakening of the mind.

About the Yima Sutra

The Vimalakīrti Sutra is one of the Buddhist scriptures that depicts the dialogue between Vimalakīrti Bodhisattva (Vimalakīrti Bodhisattva) and the Buddha. Its official name is the Vimalakīrti Nirdeśa Sūtra.

The Vimalakīrti Sutra focuses on the wisdom, compassion, and extraordinary practice of a bodhisattva named Vimalakīrti Bodhisattva Vimalakīrti Nirdeśa Sūtra. The Bodhisattva Vimazume is said to possess wisdom comparable to that of the Buddha, and through his contact with worldly people, he rescues them and spreads the Buddha Dharma.

In addition to Weimazume and the Sakyamuni, many other bodhisattvas and disciples appear in the Vimalakaya Sutra, and various teachings are exchanged. The following are some of the teachings of the Vima Sutra.

• Non-negativity: The Vimalakirta emphasizes the idea of non-negativity, which transcends dualistic oppositions such as good and evil or existence and non-existence, and holds that all phenomena are interdependent on each other. Through this teaching, the goal is to open wisdom free from concepts and attachments.
• Muso-sesso: Weimatsume Bodhisattva embodies the thought of muso-sesso, the idea of discerning the true nature of truth without attachment to form or concept. The sutras depict bodhisattvas and their disciples being liberated from attachments and doubts through the teachings of Weimazume Bodhisattva.
• Hōben wisdom: The means or method of teaching, called hōben, is an important theme in the Vimala Sutra. Hoben wisdom refers to the wisdom of giving the most appropriate teaching according to the feelings and abilities of the person being taught, and it is shown that through the skillful teaching of Weimazume Bodhisattva, the disciples attain deep understanding and enlightenment.

The Vimalakaya Sutra is a scripture that deeply explores Buddhist teachings from a philosophical and practical perspective, and holds an important place in Mahayana Buddhism. Its wisdom and teachings are said to point the way for practitioners to be liberated from attachment and delusion and to attain true freedom and awakening.