key term - Jōdo shinshū

Definition

Jōdo Shinshū, or the True Pure Land School, is a prominent branch of Pure Land Buddhism that emphasizes faith in Amida Buddha for achieving enlightenment and rebirth in the Pure Land. It was founded by Shinran Shonin in the 13th century and teaches that salvation is attainable through entrusting oneself to Amida’s vow rather than through personal merit or meditation practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jōdo Shinshū differs from other schools of Buddhism by rejecting the idea that one can attain enlightenment through personal effort or rituals; instead, it emphasizes reliance on Amida Buddha's grace.
2. The teachings of Jōdo Shinshū were popularized in Japan and became one of the most widely practiced forms of Buddhism in the country.
3. Shinran, the founder, was influenced by his own experiences and spiritual struggles, leading him to develop a more accessible form of Buddhism focused on faith.
4. Jōdo Shinshū communities often have a strong emphasis on lay participation, making it easier for everyday people to engage with Buddhist practice.
5. The school is known for its unique ceremonies and rituals, which revolve around the concepts of gratitude and entrustment to Amida Buddha.

Review Questions

• How does Jōdo Shinshū differentiate itself from other schools of Pure Land Buddhism?
  • Jōdo Shinshū stands out by emphasizing reliance on Amida Buddha's vow for salvation rather than individual effort or ritual practices. While other schools may incorporate meditation or self-cultivation, Jōdo Shinshū teaches that true enlightenment comes through faith in Amida. This focus on grace rather than merit makes it more accessible for lay practitioners, encouraging a community-oriented approach.
• What role did Shinran Shonin play in the development of Jōdo Shinshū, and how did his teachings impact its practices?
  • Shinran Shonin was instrumental in founding Jōdo Shinshū by reformulating Pure Land teachings. His focus on faith and surrendering to Amida Buddha reshaped how followers understood salvation. His ideas fostered a practice centered on Nembutsu and laid the groundwork for a more inclusive form of Buddhism that allowed for broader participation among laypeople.
• Evaluate the social implications of Jōdo Shinshū's emphasis on lay participation and its impact on Japanese society during its rise.
  • The emphasis on lay participation in Jōdo Shinshū significantly altered the social landscape of Japanese Buddhism. By making spiritual practice accessible to everyday people, it encouraged community involvement and fostered a sense of belonging among followers. This democratization of religion allowed Jōdo Shinshū to gain widespread appeal, leading to its growth as a major religious force in Japan, which helped shape cultural and social identity during a period marked by change.

Related terms

Amida Buddha: The central figure in Pure Land Buddhism, who promises to save all beings who sincerely call upon him, leading them to the Pure Land.

Shinran Shonin: The founder of Jōdo Shinshū, who reinterpreted Pure Land teachings and emphasized the importance of faith and reliance on Amida Buddha.

Nembutsu: A practice in Pure Land Buddhism, particularly in Jōdo Shinshū, involving the chanting of 'Namu Amida Butsu' to express devotion to Amida Buddha.