Study Notes on Early Japanese Buddhism

Introduction to Early Japanese Buddhism

  • Context of Buddhism in Japan

    • Buddhism was a foreign religion when it arrived in Japan.

    • Already transformed through Indian and other Asian influences by the time it reached Japanese shores.

    • Twofold result in Japan:

    • Japan became a "Buddhist nation."

    • Buddhism transformed into a "Japanese religion."

  • Phases of Buddhism's Influence

    • Initial/Formative Period:

    • Conspicuous impact on Japanese culture and religion.

    • Developmental Period:

    • Greater emphasis on Japanese transformation of Buddhism.

Major Divisions in Buddhist History

  • Geographical and Doctrinal Split:

    • Southern Buddhism (Theravada):

    • Countries: Ceylon, Burma.

    • Emphasis on strict monastic discipline.

    • Long, difficult path to salvation for laymen.

    • Also known as the School of the Elders or Monks.

    • Northern Buddhism (Mahayana):

    • Spread to China and then to Japan.

    • Lesser emphasis on monastic strictness.

    • Importance placed on later scriptures (e.g., Lotus Sutra).

    • Easier path to salvation for all, also called Great Way.

    • Southern Buddhism referred to as Hinayana (Small or Inferior Way).

  • Impact of Mahayana:

    • The Mahayana form of Buddhism was decisive in influencing Far East regions, including Japan.

Introduction of Buddhism to Japan

  • Pathway:

    • Entered Japan from Korea in mid-sixth century; 552 A.D. or 538 A.D. marked as formal dates.

    • Japanese historical texts (Nihongi) document the introduction of Buddhist artifacts and praises by a Korean king.

  • Initial Conflict with Pre-existing Traditions

    • Conflict between Buddhism and Shinto traditions manifested, prompting Shinto's formal organization.

    • Disputes over Buddha-worship versus traditional deities.

  • Evolution of Acceptance

    • Buddhist practices included in public and private life.

    • Distinct shifts in attitudes made Buddha-worship a recognized part of national identity, moving from private cult to state religion.

Buddhism's Influence on the Court and the State

  • Initial Adoption by Clan Leaders and the Imperial Court:

    • Adoption of Buddhism and its priests linked to the influence of Korean missions.

    • Buddhism aligned its rituals and practices with the interests of the court.

  • Influence on Society:

    • Adoption of Buddhist memorial services, cremation practices, and the esoteric deployment of Buddhist scriptures for various civic purposes.

    • Synergistic relationship with Shinto, incorporating elements of ritual and magic.

  • The Role of Buddhism in State Formation:

    • Contrasts with Buddhism’s acceptance in China, due to lack of pre-existing robust literature and philosophy in Japan.

    • Buddhism shaped aspects of governance and societal organization, supported by Buddhist priests who acted in various administrative capacities.

Emergence of Buddhism as a State Religion

  • Nara Period (710-784)

    • Buddhism was solidified as the state religion.

    • Key Contributions by Emperor Shomu to boost Buddhism’s national status, leading to the construction of Todai-ji temple (728).

    • Development of provincial temples mandated by monarchy illustrated centralized religious and political unity.

  • Todai-ji Temple:

    • Central cathedral for Buddhism, showcasing a large Buddha statue and acting as a focal point of religious interaction across provinces.

Interaction of Buddhism and Shinto

  • Evidence of Integration:

    • Hachiman deity representation as both a Shinto kami and a Buddhist bosatsu reflecting syncretism in worship practices.

    • The Sun Buddha Lochana (Dainichi) implicated cultural overlap with Shinto practices and beliefs.

Challenges Faced by Buddhism

  • Elite Association and. Decadence

    • Buddhism was primarily an elite pursuit associated with wealth and power, leading to corruption and political interference.

    • Move of capital from Nara to Kyoto in 784-794 was a reaction to the overpowering influence of Nara temples.

Philosophical Schools of Nara Buddhism

  • Recognition of Six Schools (dated entry into Japan):

    • Jojitsu (625), Sanron (625), Hosso (654), Kusha (658), Kegon (736), Ritsu (738).

    • Schools focused on expounding various Chinese-translated scriptures.

  • Contributions:

    • Sanron linked to Madhyamika philosophy.

    • Hosso promoted consciousness-only philosophy significant in Chinese Buddhism.

    • Kegon influenced Japanese Buddhist thought, linked with Todai-ji.

    • Ritsu emphasized monastic discipline, establishing criteria for ordination.

Conclusion: The Formation of Japanese Religion

  • Overall Influence:

    • By the end of the Nara period, Buddhism had significantly penetrated the aristocracy and bureaucracy, albeit popular adherence remained insufficient.

    • Acknowledgement of Buddhist clerics' governance over religious practices led to greater control measures by the state, indicating state-religion dynamics.