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Blog One : Zen Buddhism in Japan

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A lot of the contribution of zen Buddhism in Japan has shadows of the Chinese culture and beliefs. Some said the story began when some monks traveled to mainland in 500 C.E. and brought back teachings, practices and Chines cultural traditions. The official story was that in 538 C.E., a political delegation arrived from Korea, and for the Emperor, he brought a bronze Buddha image, Sutras, religious objects and letter praising the most excellent Dharma. A temple was built to displays these gifts but were later destroyed. Establishing Buddhism as a religion was actually officially recognized and supported in the next half century. Then the Chinese script was introduced, and it provided the Japanese the means to assimilate the tradition of classic and the Chinese version of Buddhist canon. There are 3 characteristics in terms of the arrival of Buddhism in Japan. Firstly, It was only accepted by the imperial court and did not come in a popular level. Next, It was often associated with magic powers and it was mean to used by the court of preventing or curing diseases. Finally, It did not replace indigenous kani surprisingly, but the Japanese continued to recognize the existences of it. The fact led to many Shinto-Buddhist amalgamation, and considered manifestations of Buddhas. At the time, the mean of Buddhism was to search for fulfillment and ultimate truth, not in any transcendental sphere, but within the structure of secular life, neither denying nor repressing man's natural feelings, desires or customs. Thus, this explains how Japanese arts and skills like tea ceremony and arts of gardening are pervaded by Buddhism spirituality. ======

Othe Importance Time Periods: __http://buddhism.about.com/od/throughasiaandbeyond/a/japanhistory_2.htm__

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The emergence of more characteristically Japanese form of Buddhism and importance changes developed in 794. During this time, there were 2 dominant schools of teaching: Tendai and Shingon. Saicho (767-822) and Kukai (774-835) had greatly influenced those change. ======

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Saicho was the founder of Tendai school. Based on Loctus Sutra, he became partial to teachings of Chinese grand master Chih-I and T'ien-t'ai school. Then in 804, he became his journey to China, and when he returned, he improved in the knowledge of teachings and practices and as well as sutras. He then established his base on Mount Hiei, He added 3 elements to the teachings of Chih-I: practice of Chinese Ch'an; commandments of Mahayana; parts of esoteric teaching of the "True Word", Chen-yen. Therefore, he made decisive step away from academic Buddhism of early periods, to a more active kind of religion based belief. The essential element in doctrine of Tendai was the possibility of salvation is given to all. ======

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Kukai involved mysterious radiance in the secret doctrine "Ture Word". In 804 he traveled to China and were able to answer all questions he had regarding his early studies of Taoism and Confucianism, the Mahavaircana Sutra. He also returned with skills and instructions to impart. He later built his head quarter on Mount Koya. In 835 he fell into complete silence during a sitting in deep meditation. Esoteric practices were very influential and pretty much dominated the Heian period. Near the end of the Heian period, a form of more popular Buddhism emerged and was connected with philosophy of a deteriorating "the final period of the dharma". In conclusion, it propounded notion that salvation was only possible through intercession of Buddhas and Bodhisattva. ======

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= BLOG TWO: JAPANESE BUDDHISM FESTIVALS =

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====There are many special Buddhist celebrations and festivals throughout the year. Buddhist always consider the festivals joyful and meaningful. To take in as consideration, Buddhist festivals follows a specific lunar calendar and the dates varies from country to country. Here are the some major Buddhist festivals in Japan. ====

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====Firstly, The **Shusho Service** or New Year's Day is usually held with solemnity at Buddhist temples for safe passage for the upcoming year. People wake up early and watch the first sunrise if possible. Then they are to visit nearby or well known temple, shrine wearing formal clothes, and make courtesy calls on friends and relatives. For food, they are served with spiced rice wine (toso) and pounded rice cakes as praying for longevity and health for the first 3 days. An example of a temple is the Meiji Jingu. I tink this service is similar to the Chinese Buddhism because most Buddhist in China with higher spirituality go to temples on New Years and pray for good fortune and health. However, I believe that this tradition is gradually decreasing as the generations are exposed to science and technology. Next, The **Setsubun Service** or the Heralding of Spring takes place in February 3rd and based on the Japanese lunar calendar this is the day before spring. Roosted beans are placed in square wooden container for measuring rice, and they are to be thrown at the doorways while shouting "out with the evil, in with good fortune". This service is commonly held at homes, temples, and shrines during day time. The **Buddha's Nirvana** or **Nehan Service** occurs on February 15th. Based on the Mahayana tradition, the Japanese celebrate Buddha's birth, enlightenment and nirvana separately unlike the Theravadins in Southeast Asian countries who celebrate the same events on Wesak Day in May. In history, Guatama Buddha passed away on February 15th and it was believed to be the day of Nehan (parinirvana). In Buddhist temple, the service is held by hanging scroll depicting Buddha's death into nirvana surrounding disciples, weeping over death. Thirdly, on March 21st and September 23rd, the **Higan Service** or the spring and fall equinox is held as a service reminding us of impermanence of life in Buddhist temples. The service is lasts for as long as a week. and in the middle of the week, it is considered the vernal and autumnal equinox day, in which the length of daytime is equal to the nighttime. An expression "The heat / cold extends to Higan" is used to herald the new season. This service began in japan approximately 1,200 years ago. Higan hold the meaning of "the other shore" which had derived from Sanskrit word paramita. The biggest festival is the birth of the Buddha also known as **Hana Matsuri** which takes place on April 8th and held in Buddhist temples. On this day, the assembly halls are set up with a flower-covered shrine. A statue of an infant Buddha is carried on a white elephant in parade, and this symbolizes the elephant had brought Buddha from heaven and to the mother Queen Maya. People gather around the shrine and pour sweet tea on the Buddha statue. The Buddhist memorial day or **O-Bon** is held for 4 days starting on July 13th in Buddhist homes. It was said that spirits of the ancestors will visit their homes during this season. The first day of O-Bon is called Mukae-Bon and on the eve of Mukae-Bon, families visit the graveyard with special lanterns ti welcome the spirit home. In the next few days, families enjoy a reunion the the spirits at home, celebrating with cakes, fruits and vegetable. Spirits are sent off in a miniature boat across the ocean meaning the spirits will not feel lonesome and hunger in the other world on the last day of O-Bon and also known as Okuri-Bon. Lastly, on December 31st or new year's eve the Joya Service is held. Family usually starts off with serving buckwheat noodles. Then at the stroke of midnight, a sound of bells ringing for 108 times is to be heard at homes or bell towers or sometimes broadcasted on media. Many Buddhist stay awake on this night to heard the sound of the bells as an symbol to start the new year's pilgrimage to specific temples or shrines. ==== To learn about more festivals, visit __http://www.religionfacts.com/buddhism/holidays.htm __

====Japan Buddhist Federation, Part II: The Japanese and Buddhism, A Guide to Japanese Buddhism 2002, January 4, 2011. http://www.buddhanet.net/nippon/nippon_partII.html#5 ====

Blog Three: Arts of the Zen Buddhism in Japan

==== The contribution of zen Buddhism to the Japanese culture is profound. Zen influenced Japanese arts widely from Japanese architecture, poetry, ceramics, painting, calligraphy, gardening, the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, to other crafts. I personally think this is why Japanese arts and the culture is being admired worldwide by all nations of people. I am personally very addicted to any aspects or things that are originated from Japan. ====

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==== One of the most influential and obvious association of Zen in Japanese arts is the ink monochrome painting. The recorded story of how ink monochrome was invented began when Zen monks were trying to paint using ink to express their view of religion and personal convictions. At first, they started off painting topics that were closely associated with their everyday life such as Zen patriarchs, teachers, and enlightened individuals. These monk artists eventually become experts and moved onto more secular themes including, bamboo, flowering plums, orchids, and birds, which the Chinese culture soon adapted as their symbol. As the popular techniques and the amazing appealing of the art works, ink monochrome gradually marched its way into a wider ranger of themes such as literary figures, landscapes and more personal expression were involved. This invention really helped the world in understanding the aspects of art, in fact, this is one of the major unit in arts classes throughout high school. ====

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==== Another example to display the influence of zen in Japanese arts and culture would be the tea ceremony. It might sound like a simple tea party in which little girls arranges with its dolls in televisions, but this is not the case with the Japanese tea ceremony. Tea ceremony originated from the customs of Zen Buddhism. The story was told that during acts of worship, Buddhist monks drank tea from a bronze bowl in front of a statue of their founder, Budhidharma. Later on, the ritual developed over other parts of the world. Tea ceremonies happens during which the host and the quests strike for spiritual refreshment and harmony with the universe. Tea ceremonies often occurs in a public tea house, private gardens, and designed room in a private home. Tea ceremonies approaches the elements of Japanese philosophy, and artistic beauty. It also captures 4 principles: harmony (with people and nature), respect (for others), purity (of heart and mind), and tranquility. In person, i believe tea ceremonies is a great refreshment for the stressful work life in Japan, and is may also act as an amazing way of reflecting one's life. ====

To see an video on tea ceremony, click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRI_mvbpDrs


Mark Schumacher. **Overview of Zen Buddhism and Its Influence on Japanese Art. Zen art Tour. 1995-2009. Retrieved January 15, 2001. http://www.onmarkproductions.com/html/zen_art_tour.shtml**

Department of Asian Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Ar. 200. Retrieved January 15, 2011. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/zen/hd_zen.htm

BLOG FOUR: ZEN BUDDHISM CUISINE- Shojin Ryori

Shojin Ryori is a type of vegetarian cooking that was brought into Japan in the 16th century along with Buddhism. In Buddhism, Shojin is defined as <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 120%;">to asceticism in pursuit of enlightenment. Ryori literally means cooking. It was said that the spread of Shojin Ryori began in the 13th century with the advent of Zen sect of Buddhism. To the Japanese Buddhist, the ritual of cooking daily meals is a true expression of their religious disciplines. Since Buddhists are vegetarian because one of the basic precepts of Buddhism is 'thou shalt not kill', similar forms of cooking occur in China and Korea as well, but the Japanese had developed their styles for cooking with practical and refined skills. The most common ingredient used for this custom of eating includes soybeans, tofu, vegetable oil, walnuts, sesame, etc. Also, the use of seasoning such as onion, garlic and strong sauces is usually not common and not recommended. The above introduction to Shojin Ryori might sound <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;">limited and little tasting, but this is actually a very complicated and very rich in taste mainly because every single ingredient used was dealt with care. One of the dish in Shojin Ryori called gomadofu, which is really sesame tofu made out of ground white sesame, kuzu and water, might take as long as long ten years to prepare in its most perfect form. This not because of its complexity but the Buddhist believe you need to respect the ingredients you are working with, and treating with care. The following displays a tradition Shojin Ryori treated in a Buddhism restaurant.If you're interested in having a taste of Buddhism cuisine, visit http://recipeland.com/recipes/buddhist/ <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 110%;"> 1. First you will be served with a bowl of green tea and a kind of sweet produced from the roots of warabi fiddlehead fern.

2. Then follows a tea with a shot of plum wine

3. 1st course:　rice vinegar & miso seasoned steam canola flower, and cold vegetables in soy cream 4. Next, a combination of lily roots along with tofu & mushrooms mixed with kudtzu sauce

5. In clockwise, the seaweed like food is a river vegetable and sansho pepper corns, pink rick cube with lily roots. Then is imitation of fish taste soybean cake. Grilled gluten cake. Finally a crunchy stemmed vegetable.

6. Kyoto favorite, sesame tofu, and follows the a dish of tempera

7. Final course: soy dumpling, Japanese pumpkin squash, and soy milk yuba shoots,

8. Finishes off with a rice infused with bamboo and a shitake soup.

Steve Beimel. Shojin Ryori—Fit for a Stoic Gourmet. Steve Beimel's Japan Living Arts. 2009. 14 January 2011. http://www.japanlivingarts.com/?p=1026

Celia Plende. Shojin Ryori. Clearspring. 2006. Thursday, 13 Jan, 2011. http://www.clearspring.co.uk/japanese/specialities/shojin_ryori

http://www.hachinoki.co.jp/origin/shojin1.html

<span style="color: #efa59f; font-family: 'Arial Black',Gadget,sans-serif; font-size: 200%;">BLOG FIVE: A TOUR IN JAPAN!

"You havent been to Japan, if you haven't visit the temples." This is an old saying in which people commented after visiting Japan and Buddhist temples, and demonstrates the role in which Buddhist temples play in Japan's tourism. There are two main tourist attractions in Japan that are "must visit", the city Nara and Kyoto.

Kyoto Kyoto is located among the mountains in Western Honshu, and has an area of 827.90 km2. I was once considered the capital of Japan long time ago during the bygone era, but it was later changed to Edo, which is the city of Tokyo that we are familiar with today.For many visits, whether they are Buddhist or not, it is valued as a sacred destination. In the city of Kyoto, there are approximately 2000 temples and monasteries that were created in the last 1500 years. Therefore, Kyoto is also known as "city of a thousand temples."

One of the Zen Buddhism temples within the city of Kyoto is the Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) temple. This temple is famous for the temple itself that is covered completely in gold leafs on the top two floors, and each floor has its unique architecture style. You will be able to find the statue of Shaka Buddha and Yoshimitsu on the first floor along with the Golden Pavilion. Within the garden, it contains the Anmintaku Pond that was told that it will never dry up.

Kyoto. Japan-Guide. 2006-2011. Retrieved January 15, 2011, http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2158.html

Samrat Bhawan. Kyoto. Buddhist Tourism. 2007. Retrieved January 15, 2011. http://www.buddhist-tourism.com/countries/japan/destinations/kyoto.html

NARA The ciry Nara was once the capital of Japan for 74 years, and it is still considered the capital of Japan today in people's eye. This city is well-known for its historic temples and roaring deers that makes it the prime tourist spot. The temples within Nara is heavily influenced by both the Chinese culture and the Indian. Today, 8 of the temples in Nara are listed as the world heritage site, inlcuding Todaiji Temple, Shoso-in Hall, Kofukuji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Gangoji Temple, Horyuji Temple and Yakushuji Temple.It is located 42 km from Kyoto. As mentioned above, one the 8 temples that were listed as the world heritage site, Todaiji Temple (Great Eastern Temple) is one of the most famous temples in Nara, and is recognized as the landmark of Nara. At the entrance, you would enter the Great Southern Gate with 2 guardian statues of Nio, caved in 1203. Then the Daibutsudden or the Buddha Hall, that was said to be the largest wooden building in the world. This temple is famous for housing the Buddha statue called the Daibutsu because it was made of copper and bronze, weights 250 tons and 30m tall. Last, outside the temple, dont miss the Octagonal Lantern that is known as the oldest treausre in this temple, because it contains the Buddhist text on the merits of lighting lanterns.

Visit __http://zentravel.lottitour.jp/wordpress__ for more information on tourism in Japan!

Holly Hayes. Todiji, Nara. Sacred Destinations. January 30, 2010. Retrieved January 15, 2011. http://www.sacred-destinations.com/japan/nara-todaiji