RG ST 21 Lecture Notes - Lecture 13: Lotus Sutra, Kamakura Period, Shingon Buddhism
15 Nov 2018
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Document Summary
Buddhism flourishes during nara (710-784) and heian (794-1185) Adopted as official religion in 8th century. Japanese monks travel to china to study teachings and texts. Focuses on esoteric, mantra, fire, ceremonies, etc. Madhyamika, mind-only, ninaya, avatamsaka (interpenetration) transported and developed. Temples and shrines established in every province. Perceived as the better religion, materialistic, investment. K kai, aka k b -daishi (774-835), founds esoteric school of buddhism called shingon (zh ny n, , true word ) Meets a master in china and brings teachings back to japan. Emphasizes practices such as mantra and ritual. Sound itself can transform oneself with its powers. Can overcome anything, goals and wishes promised, immediate results. Lotus sutra: elaborate doctrine, many theories, harmonize philosophy and meditation. Synthesis of chinese tiantai school, with zen and esoteric influences. In kamakura period (1185-1333) several new schools emerge, long-lasting effect in japan.
