Is Buddhism in Japan dying out?

[Nichiren]

I like to share this response of american-buddhist who lives in Japan in explicating the truth of Buddhist movement in japan.

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November 12, 2008

Dear editor(s)

In regard to the article online at

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/14/wo...a/14japan.html entitled, "In Japan, Buddhism May Be Dying Out."

I must say, as a life long Buddhist from the US, who has now lived in Japan for the past 4 years, there could be nothing further from the truth.

Buddhism in Japan is defiantly not dieing out. Buddhism is alive and flourishing in Japan!

I have been to Soka Gakkai ([SGI] the largest lay Buddhist organization in the world, with millions of members in Japan alone) meetings all over Japan.

The article claims, "…interest in Buddhism is declining in urban areas." This has been disproven by the large growth of SGI members in both urban and rural areas, where new community centers are opening all the time.

For the 3 years I lived in Sendai (two hours north east of Tokyo by bullet train), the 10th largest city in Japan, I have been to international meetings with groups of people from many countries practicing Buddhism in Japan.

I have been asked to speak or perform at 7 different SGI community centers through out Sendai in front of audiences ranging from 100s of people to smaller gathering of just a hand full of people. I have also participated in a number of group, Buddhist, discussion meetings in people's homes all over Sendai. On top of that, I organized a monthly English Buddhist study meeting in Sendai that kept increasing in monthly participation.

I also had two opportunities to travel to the Itoh Peninsula (south of Tokyo) to take part in the annual English-speaking, Buddhist 2-day seminars, which takes place every October. Each time I went, I met English-speaking, Buddhist members who live all over Japan, who have had similar experiences I've had in Sendai.

I also have been to many large and small SGI Buddhist meetings throughout Tokyo, in Hachioji City, Shinanomachi City and in other areas of metropolitan Tokyo. In all these meetings there was a large participation from not only young and old Japanese people, but from people from all over the world, who are now living in Japan, or who were just visiting Japan.

After living in Sendai, I recently moved to Niigata (which is a smaller city than Sendai) but I have seen the same active participation of SGI members in Buddhist meetings in people's homes and at the many community centers I've visited in Niigata City, Nagaoka City, Sanjo City and Shibata City.

Elsewhere, in both Sendai and Niigata, I have had the opportunity to speak at gathering of junior high school and high school members of the SGI, where hundreds of young people were gathered to study and practice Buddhism very enthusiastically.

I have many SGI friends from around the world, who are now living in even more remote places in Japan than I have lived, like Aomori, who share with me the great participation they are witnessing of young and old Buddhist practitioners in many Buddhist prayer, study and discussion activities in their areas.

This article misses the main point that priesthoods in Japan are dieing out due to the incredible growth of Buddhist lay organizations in Japan and this is a very welcome thing to the growth of Buddhism in Japan and to the great evolution of Buddhism in Japan.

Buddhism was never meant to be horded by one class or caste of society. The most famous Buddhist teacher in Japanese history, Nichiren (1222-1282), although a monk, didn't have a temple, yet he had loyal follows all over Japan, whom he met on his two exiles, first on the Izu Peninsula, and then on the Island of Sado (off of Niigata). He also converted many followers to his form of Buddhism on his journeys from Kamakura, the Shogun capital at the time, to the main seat of Buddhism for many centuries, Mt. Hiei in Kyoto, where he studied in the top Buddhist sutra libraries at Enryaku-ji Temple.

Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha of India also had no formal temple for most of his 50 years of teaching Buddhism. He traveled all over what is now India and Nepal on foot. He conducted outdoor seminars, meditation retreats, and question and answer sessions at Eagle Peak and in the bamboo grove, among other places.

The institutionalization of Buddhism into professional clergy, who hide away in temples and monasteries and are removed from everyday life, is reminiscent of one branch of Buddhism (Theravada), which has been labeled by its critics, Hinayana (meaning lesser vehicle). The other branch of Buddhism, Mahayana (meaning greater vehicle) is a branch of Buddhism, which believes Buddhism should be an active part of the practitioners' daily lives.

In this article, Norimitsu Onishi, states the statistics:

"In 1999, 62 percent still held funerals at home or in temples, while 30 percent chose funeral homes, according to the Consumers' Association. But in 2007, the preferences were reversed, with 28 percent selecting funerals at home or in temples, and 61 percent opting for funeral homes."

However, he may not be aware of what has contributed to this drastic change. In 1999, the Nichiren Shoshu Priesthood, which enjoyed the greatest growth of any sect in Japan after World War II (thanks to its affiliation with the Soka Gakkai) decided to excommunicate the 10 million plus Soka Gakkai members. Since then, those millions of SGI members in Japan and around the world have discovered that having priests be involved in funerals is a useless formality, which has no basis in the Buddhist sutras.

Over the past 9 years, since what we in the SGI now call our "independence day" from the Nichiren Shoshu's form of "funeral Buddhism," the SGI has not seen any decline in participation in our activities. We have seen the same growth that has been occurring since our organization was founded before World War II.

If the interviewed chief priest, from the article, Giju Sakamoto of Chorakuji in Akita, went down the street to one of the local Akita SGI Community Centers, he would see that Buddhism is still flourishing in his area as well.

In the Lotus Sutra, which is the preeminent text of many sects of Buddhism in Japan, the historical Buddha (Shakyamuni) states, "In the beginning, I made a vow to make all people equal to me, with no distinctions."

Priesthoods have been formalities that have existed long before Buddhism came into existence. They are a product of caste and feudalistic societies-a formality that Buddhism should have shaken a long time ago, in order to live up to Shakyamuni's vow.

In Buddhism, all people are Buddhas and there should be no distinctions between priests and laity, nor between male of female priest or male or female lay persons (perhaps this is why the first person to attain enlightenment in the Lotus Sutra was a women [the dragon king's daughter]).

The growth of lay Buddhist organizations in Japan, along with the development of the printing press, universal literacy, and now the internet has superannuated the need for professional religious people in Buddhism or in any other religion.

Historically, the priesthood's role in Buddhism has been to copy, transcribe, and translate Buddhist texts and to interpret them for the illiterate public.

This was needed in a feudalistic society, where most people were illiterate and most people worked all day and they only had one day each week (if that) to get involved in religions activities.

Devoid of a legitimate purpose by the above-mentioned developments of society, we have seen priesthoods in many religions fall into decadence. The death of "funeral Buddhism" in Japan will hopefully start a wave of the death of priesthoods in all religions, which are no longer needed in our modern world. This will hopefully be the awakening of religions to their true purpose, which is the spiritual enhancement of lay people's everyday lives and the betterment of society.


Timothy Harada

www.timharada.com

[Titmouse(Gabe)]

I am a Christian, and while I respect all other religions, I must respectfully disagree for what is almost always the same reason.
In Christianity, we do not believe in "acts" as validation. This is why Jesus was crusified, to validate us, and save us from hell. We pray, we read andobey the bible, we spread the word, etc, but these are not to validate ourselves with God. These are simply done to prove to God we are willing to be used. When we do these things, we hear from God. Suddenly things that were normal, suddently just aren't appealing anymore.
I am not one to conform, and I honestly read my bible out of boredom, not expecting anything.
Then the Lord gave me insight into ppl's lives, secrets they had told nobody. Did I want to get involved, of course not. But I did it, and have encouraged a lot of ppl. Have not let many ppl to God, but I planted a seed that will hopefully grow someday.

Anyway, I dont know what you think about Christianity, but those are the basic facts about Christianty, if you ever were curious
not all Christians are perfect.

[Captlongdong]

I dont think Buddhism is dying out, just visit any of the temples that allow visitors to participate in the rituals. There is one near Tsurumi, a famous sect. You can do a tour and many believers attend. Buddhism in Japan is kind of like Christianity in the U.S. Many people believe in the base of it but dont attend church.

[Dogen Z]

Buddhism in Japan might be losing some ground to more a aggressive religion that uses business school marketing technigues, and some parts of Buddhism in Japan could be faulted (especially the Soto sect) for becoming more of a professional funeral service organization, but I think Buddhism in general still serves to provide spiritual solace and comfort to many in these times of confusion and anxiety.

[nice gaijin]

Originally Posted by Nichiren

I like to share this response of american-buddhist who lives in Japan in explicating the truth of Buddhist movement in japan.

Is this post/quoted statement about the strength/popularity of Japanese Buddhism in general, or to trumpet the strength of SGI itself

[Emoni]

As an atheist, I don't see this as something to be even concerned or worried about. Personally (this is a key point here, as I'm speaking for myself, not a group in any sort), I view religions as simply a reflection of partially justified traditions and culture based around superstitious beliefs and group behavior. They spread, they wane, just like any practice. It isn't the death of a species, and it isn't even all that important in the overall scheme of things, and in many ways I see it as harmful for mass cult-like behavior based on myths and superstition to be spreading. I respect a human being's right to think, believe, and choose freely; however, I don't respect the logic and concepts behind religion, to accept without questioning and to simply "believe" or have blind" faith for the debatable benefit of over simplified "morals."

Now, with that said so you know where I'm coming from, I don't think Buddhism is dying in Japan. What do I base this on? Well, somewhat of a loose argument actually; however, I believe it is far stronger than the assumption that it is.

1) The source of that article is SGI, a very separate group of "Buddhism" that many don't even CONSIDER to be part of the main Buddhist practices in Japan at times. They have distinct goals, and self interest in mind just like any other group and therefore this article is extremely biased.

2) What form of Buddhism? "Funeral Buddhism?" What about other forms that don't fall inside this SGI labeled section.

3) Any proof other than this article? I've not seen any news articles nor saw, heard, or read about any major shifts to drop Buddhist belief. Most religious practices I've seen in Japan are largely ritualistic, and from what I have read and heard, has been for a long time.

Even assuming Buddhism completely disappears from Japan. Would there be a major change in society and every day life? No, not really, and there might possibly be no noticeable change at all.

I had a friend who was Soka Gakkai. Nice lady, but her beliefs on chanting, magic power of Buddhism belief, and the importance that I MUST accept her religion eventually if I hoped to maintain a connection and understand her put a serious strain on a very good friendship. I've also grown up knowing a Japanese-American friend who regularly attends a "typical" Buddhist shrine/church in Penrin, and have never EVER felt such pressure or looming ultimatums. I've met many friends in Japan as well, even stayed with a family who's dad ran his own shrine in Chiba, and would come home in ceremonial robes, change into jeans and a shirt, then sit and watch the news with a beer. I never saw any sign that Buddhism was "dying." The beliefs and practices I see that are generally mainstream (or seem to be) in Japan are relatively noninvasive, which are very unlike SGI.

Bah, no time to proof read and edit so excuse any mistakes and errors in here.

[caster51]

The religion is not lost as long as there is an embarrassed ,sick and poor person..
so is cult...

[InvisibleSkyMagician]

To the topic, good. The sooner religion of any kind dies out, the sooner we, humankind, can throw away our superstitious beliefs that divide our society, and embrace knowledge and science, for the betterment of everyone.

Buddhism though, is just a small fish in a big polluted pond. We need to work together to cause the downfall of the unnatural mutated fish Christianity and Islam.

[Dogen Z]

You need to chill. Listen to the Buddhist chanting in the video above, it will help.

"Buddhism is a way of life, not a religion
we can learn alot from our Buddhist freinds."

[Nichiren]

Originally Posted by nice gaijin

Is this post/quoted statement about the strength/popularity of Japanese Buddhism in general, or to trumpet the strength of SGI itself

Its both i believe.Soka Gakkai/SGI is the largest and active Nichiren buddhist lay group in japan in which inevitably revolutionize in the history of Japanese Buddhism in general and even to the world where members practise now with more than 192 countries and territories.

Link: www.sgi.org

[Nichiren]

[QUOTE=Emoni;638804]

Now, with that said so you know where I'm coming from, I don't think Buddhism is dying in Japan. What do I base this on? Well, somewhat of a loose argument actually; however, I believe it is far stronger than the assumption that it is.

1) The source of that article is SGI, a very separate group of "Buddhism" that many don't even CONSIDER to be part of the main Buddhist practices in Japan at times. They have distinct goals, and self interest in mind just like any other group and therefore this article is extremely biased.

I am partly agree. Yes, with the growing lay buddhist movement which has nothing to do with ritualism, SGI became more active with people and in society. Yet, the ultimate goal of Buddhist law still remains--that is enlightenment/freedom from sufferings or attaining Buddhahood what SGI succintly puts it in the modern idea called "Human Revolution."

2) What form of Buddhism? "Funeral Buddhism?" What about other forms that don't fall inside this SGI labeled section.

I believe there are other buddhist organizations/traditions outside SGI who goes beyond traditions or rituals. Most people especially in the west called this "Engaged Buddhism".

3) Any proof other than this article? I've not seen any news articles nor saw, heard, or read about any major shifts to drop Buddhist belief. Most religious practices I've seen in Japan are largely ritualistic, and from what I have read and heard, has been for a long time.

Exactly, that is the reason most largely buddhist schools are ritualistics and somewhat lost the true spirit of Buddhism.Even the time of Nichiren, he challenged established buddhist schools which focused on rituals which have no power to save people from sufferings.In the same spirit, the SGI is different in that Buddhism is found in the vibrant faith in the lives of its practioners and put into practise within their daily lives.

[admkenshin]

I don't think popular Buddhism in Japan is a religion. It might have been one in the past, but now it is only culture and Traditions. Like, in Sweden we hold holiday events in churches, but although the priest may same some weird things that nobody listens to, it is not a religious event in the least.

Same thing with Shinto.

Original, not popular Buddhism never even was a religion to start with. It was a philosophy of learning.

[Emoni]

Originally Posted by Nichiren

which inevitably revolutionize in the history of Japanese Buddhism in general and even to the worldink

Preach much?

[Nichiren]

Its not preaching. That's a fact..

[Derfel]

Originally Posted by Nichiren

Its not preaching. That's a fact..

And its a fact that you imply that its a great thing.

[Emoni]

Originally Posted by Nichiren

Its not preaching. That's a fact..

No... unless you have access to a time machine, claiming you can "predict the future" and what you say you think will happen isn't fact, it's called wishful thinking. You'd be wise to understand the vast difference. Logical and critical thinking can do wonders for the mind.

[Nichiren]

Originally Posted by Derfel

And its a fact that you imply that its a great thing.

it is because a lot of people embrace this practical great philosophy of Nichiren's buddhism and it had impacted millions of believers the actual proof or benefit from their practise on their daily life..Many people can gain or enter the path of enlightenment amidst the realities of living. That is a great thing about it.

[Nichiren]

Originally Posted by Emoni

No... unless you have access to a time machine, claiming you can "predict the future" and what you say you think will happen isn't fact, it's called wishful thinking. You'd be wise to understand the vast difference. Logical and critical thinking can do wonders for the mind.

What is important is the here and now. Do not wait for the future. How can it be a wishful thinking. Buddhism is reason and is based realities of here and now...

[imafraidofamericans]

Originally Posted by InvisibleSkyMagician

To the topic, good. The sooner religion of any kind dies out, the sooner we, humankind, can throw away our superstitious beliefs that divide our society, and embrace knowledge and science, for the betterment of everyone.
Buddhism though, is just a small fish in a big polluted pond. We need to work together to cause the downfall of the unnatural mutated fish Christianity and Islam.

As a student of all religions, what draws me most to Buddhism is it's paralels with science. The above noted author, along with being a singer/song writer, who has written many songs that relate to Buddhism philosophy, is also the writer of a few books, somewhat related to Buddhims and some very political. He's also a podcaster in Japan.
But I think his writings on Buddhism and Science are most enlightening.
Just search the web for A Buddhist Dialogue with Science, you will find a few links.

[FrustratedDave]

Originally Posted by Nichiren

it is because a lot of people embrace this practical great philosophy of Nichiren's buddhism and it had impacted millions of believers the actual proof or benefit from their practise on their daily life..Many people can gain or enter the path of enlightenment amidst the realities of living. That is a great thing about it.

And those who are in charge really seem to embracing the monetary side of it for sure. Are you sure it is not a business?

http://sudati.iinaa.net/ikeda/ikeda080919.html



And this is just what is paid in taxes by Ikeda Kaichou, certainly seems to be doing it for the love of SGI....

What are your thoughts on the top guys yearly salaries?

[imafraidofamericans]

Daisaku Ikeda, the honorary president of the Soka Gakkai is the best selling author in Japan, with over 100 books to his names. He doesn't receive any money from the Soka Gakkai. His book sales along with allow him to live very richly, but he is very frugal, so he lives in a very small and modest house and he donates most of his royalties from book sales to creating peace institutions, art institution, and school. The other soka gakkai leaders, most don't receive any money from taking on a leadership responsibility and most have full time jobs outside of their leadership responsibility. There are a great number of full time staff that work for the Soka Gakkai, and the many institutions founded by Daisaku Ikeda, but none of them are allowed a large salary, as President Ikeda has long written against profiteers and has always driven them from the organization.

[Emoni]

Glancing at this thread is like having a house without a door to slam shut and no shot gun in a neighborhood of evangelicals.

[imafraidofamericans]

why do people from the US always want to slam doors and wield guns, when people try to have a civil conversation?

[Emoni]

Originally Posted by imafraidofamericans

why do people from the US always want to slam doors and wield guns, when people try to have a civil conversation?

Oh, the humanity! Oh, the irony! Oh, the blatant extreme stereotyping!

Not that I don't want this thread derailed, but it would be hilarious if you started a thread based on your above statement in the serious discussion section with only that sentence.

In fact, I dare you to do so.

[imafraidofamericans]

Some stereotypes actually fit quite well for some people. And some truths are truer at given moments.