Remembering Rennyo
If it seems like there is always something special going on in Jodo Shinshu temples, it is because there really is. In our Buddhist sect, we have a lot of notable observances. They are part of what makes being a Jodo Shinshu practition so much fun. They are always great occasions for fellowship, remembrance, good food, and, most of all, for hearing and receiving the Dharma. Today, my home temple (Los Angeles Hompa Hongwanji Buddhist Temple) held its annual memorial service in honor of the one we often call the “second founder” of Jodo Shinshu, Rennyo Shonin.
Rennyo Shonin (1415-1499), the 8th abbot of the Honganji temple, stands as a pivotal figure in Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. A descendant of our sect's founder, Shinran Shonin, Rennyo-sama is also often called the "restorer of the Jodo Shinshu faith" in honor of his efforts in revitalizing the teachings and establishing the Hongwanji as a powerful religious force in and beyond Japan. However, Rennyo's legacy extends far beyond our beautiful temples and lovng devotion to the grat compassion of Amida Buddha. His enduring impact lies in his prolific writings - particularly his letters.
Born into a tumultuous time in Japanese history, Rennyo inherited a Hongwanji temple that was struggling financially and facing open opposition (and even persecution) from Japan’s more-established sects. He rose to the challenge with a charismatic personality and a keen understanding of the power and importance of communication. Rennyo adopted a new approach to spreading Shinran's message of salvation through faith in Amida Buddha. He bypassed the traditional elite focus of so many Buddhist sects and penned heartfelt letters directly to the common people.
Rennyo's letters (ofumi, in Japanese), now collected in what we know as his Gobunshō (letters of entrusting), were simple yet profound. They addressed the anxieties and spiritual yearnings of everyday people living through the pervasive war, famine, and social upheaval that marked the age. In clear and concise language, Rennyo explained the core tenets of Jodo Shinshu, emphasizing the concept of Shinjin or True Entrusting – the complete reliance on Amida Buddha's compassion for rebirth in the Pure Land.
These letters transcended mere religious instruction. Rennyo offered solace and guidance, creating a sense of community among geographically dispersed followers. He fostered a network of lay devotees who hand-copied and distributed his letters, ensuring their message reached a vast and often remote audience. Rennyo's epistolary outreach proved both revolutionary and wildly successful, transforming Jodo Shinshu from a struggling sect to a vibrant religious movement with a loyal following. Thanks to him, Jodo Shinshu would become the largest Buddhist denomination in Japan.
The impact of Rennyo's letters still continues to this day. They remain a cornerstone of our Jodo Shinshu practice and we study and cherish them for their timeless wisdom. Rennyo Shonin's legacy as the "letter-writing reformer" stands as a testament to the enduring power of the written word to inspire, comfort, and build a lasting spiritual community.
Namo Amida Butsu!
