Buddhism And Shinto Controversy

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Generally, it is believed that the introduction of Buddhism took place upon the giving of a sparkling Buddha’s image by Baekje, which was a Korean Kingdom, offered scripture scrolls as well as ornaments to Emperor Kimmei of Japan. During those days, the emperor’s rulership over Japan was via the ruler’s nobles within the court. Therefore, there was an immediate controversy on whether people should accept any foreign cult. For instance, certain clans like the Nakatomi vehemently opposed the new religion because they believed Japan had arranged for a traditional, indigenous religion known as Shinto. Nonetheless, Soga clan, which enjoyed influence, favored Buddhism because it could enrich their culture more. In the essay, the creation of social …show more content…

As a result, Tendai was greatly favored by court, thus, rose to eminence during the late era of Heinia. On the other hand, Shingon was mostly esoteric, and was associated with mystical and occultist doctrines, which required high level of austerity. There were structured and secret rituals that utilized mantras, mudras, and mandalas. The rituals were mainly developed to help their practitioners achieve enlightenment. Even though Shingon had complex practices, it exerted immense impact on religious art, faith on court, and monastic orders. Kukai also known as Kobo Daishi was the great teacher and is still considered among the most beloved Buddhist saviors. He played the role of performing rituals for the emperor, constructing reservoirs for the common people, and even constructed a school for the common citizens. It is notable that the Tendai’s philosophical speculation and Shingon spiritualism only attracted the monks, scholars, and court nobles. Once these groups of people had obtained the privilege of becoming monks, they went to and lived in temples where they opposed imperial …show more content…

Hiei, but was not satisfied with a teaching that focused mostly on the definition and the superiority of the Tendai doctrine. Also, Honen established the Pure Land School that was based on canonical texts, namely; Muryojukyo, Sutra, and the Kan Muryojukyo. His was a form of opposition to Pure Land Buddhism Honen’s ever-increasing popularity was strongly opposed by the other schools and the government. His teachings were prohibited and he was forced into exile, but was permitted to return later when his teachings became officially recognized. Shinran developed Honen’s teachings further to establish the Jodo Shin

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