Category: Uncategorized
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Reflections on the Konponchudo and Practice
The Konponchūdō (根本中堂) is the main structure at Enryakuji, the head temple of the Japanese Tendai school of Buddhism located on Mt. Hiei. Literally translated, it means something along the lines of, “Central Hall of the Root [Teaching]”. The formal name of the structure is Ichijōshikanin (一乘止觀院), which translates as “Samatha and Vipasyana of the…
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An Opportunity for Practice When We Access the Internet Tripitaka
As a child, one of the lessons I received on living as a Buddhist was on the treatment of Buddhist texts. These were the recorded words of the Buddha, or the comments of great sages; in other words, srarira, physical relics of the Buddha. As the Lotus Sutra reads, O Bhaiṣajyarāja! Wherever this sutra is…
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Soldiers of Humanity
Attending the Gyōin was a massive shock for me. I left behind my wife and children, left the partners in my firm, my clients, everything. Once we checked in to the monastery, our contact with the rest of the world was severely limited. As my wife’s friend commented to her during my leave, it was…
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NAMU HIEIZAN MANZAN SANBŌ
I take refuge in the Three Jewels of the Whole Mountain of Hieizan. Many tourists visit Enryakuji, the head temple of the Tendai sect located on Mt. Hiei to the northeast of Kyoto every year. For many, it is a peaceful detour away from the throngs who fill the streets of the ancient capital year…