Buddhism in the Heian period

• Buddhism in the Heian period

• First half

  • A new trend that emerged as a result of separating religion from politics.
  • Saicho and the Tendai sect
    • Criticized the previous Japanese Buddhism with their idea of “One Vehicle,” where everyone can attain enlightenment, similar to Mahayana Buddhism.
  • Kukai and the Shingon sect
    • Emphasized Esoteric Buddhism, which focuses on spiritual practices that cannot be understood through words, such as mantras.
    • Became popular among the aristocracy.
    • Aimed to achieve “jusshinjobutsu,” where one becomes one with the cosmic entity of Dainichi Nyorai, through various rituals and practices.
  • Syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism
    • The theory of “honji suijaku” suggests that Buddhism is the true essence (honji), and Shinto is its temporary form (suijaku) in ancient Japanese thought.

• Later period

  • The belief in the “end of the Dharma” (mappo)
    • The idea that in this degenerate age, all efforts and practices are meaningless.
    • The notion that correct practices and enlightenment have already disappeared.
  • Jodo Buddhism
    • Believed in relying on Amida Buddha to be led to enlightenment and the Pure Land, abandoning self-power.
    • Honen started the practice of “odori nembutsu,” where people danced and chanted to ask for blessings.
    • Genku advocated “kanmuryoju,” contemplating the Pure Land within one’s mind.
  • Gradually spread among the common people, and this trend accelerated during the Kamakura New Buddhism period.

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