Nichiren Shonin and Ankokuronji Temple
Nichiren Shonin lived during Japan's tumultuous Kamakura period (1185-1333), a time marked by natural disasters and conflict. Despite immense personal hardship, his profound faith drove him to propagate the Lotus Sutra, Shakyamuni Buddha's most vital teaching. He dedicated his life to this faith, aiming to alleviate suffering and bring happiness to all of society, emphasizing salvation not just in the afterlife but for the living. Today, the chanting of the "Odaimoku (Namu-Myoho-Renge-Kyo)," the core practice Nichiren Shonin taught for attaining enlightenment, continues to inspire many.
After proclaiming his new faith (Rikkyo Kaishu) at Seichoji Temple in Chiba in 1253, Nichiren Shonin chose Kamakura, the shogunate's capital, to spread the Lotus Sutra's teachings. He built a small hut at Matsubagayatsu, the very origin of Ankokuronji Temple.
He spent about 20 years here, during which he authored his famous "Rissho Ankoku Ron" (The Treatise on Spreading Peace Throughout the Country by Establishing the True Dharma). His presentation of this treatise to the Shogunate on July 17, 1260, angered high officials and followers of other denominations, leading to a night attack on Nichiren Shonin on August 27th. This event is known as "Matsubagayatsu no Honan" (The Incident of Matsubagayatsu). Because of this legend, the temple's full name is "Matsubagayatsu-reiseki Myohokekyozan Ankokuronji," though it was formerly called "Ankokuron kutsu ji."
Ankokuronji is a particularly significant site in Nichiren Shonin's life. Not only was he attacked during the Matsubagayatsu Incident, but he was also apprehended here before both the "Izu Exile" and the "Tatsunokuchi Honan." Furthermore, it was at this location that many individuals became his disciples and followers. Thus, Ankokuronji holds immense importance as the very birthplace of the Nichiren Shu religious denomination.
Rissho Ankoku Ron
Rissho Ankoku Ron is a significant work penned by the Japanese Buddhist monk Nichiren Shonin during the turbulent Kamakura period, a time ravaged by typhoons, earthquakes, epidemics, and famines. Despite its seemingly complex title, the text is presented as an accessible dialogue between a traveler and an innkeeper, making its message easy to grasp. Its core theme is the establishment of a peaceful and tranquil nation through the principles of Buddhism.
While Nichiren Shonin's arguments were grounded in the true tenets of Buddhism and a rational assessment of the real world, his sharp critiques unfortunately provoked immense anger among priests and followers of other denominations. The work was initially dismissed by the Shogunate, leading to numerous attacks and persecutions against Nichiren Shonin. However, the subsequent occurrence of foreign invasions and domestic rebellions—events warned of within the Rissho Ankoku Ron—ultimately validated its prophecies. This unforeseen accuracy led to a significant increase in Nichiren Shonin's followers.
Even in his final days, Nichiren Shonin continued to underscore the profound importance of Rissho Ankoku Ron in his lectures to his students, a testament to its enduring significance.
Gonan Omusubi - take refuge in the rice ball
Gonan Omusubi is a local specialty rice ball with roots in Enpakuzan Hosshoji Temple. Legend traces its origin to the time when Nichiren Shonin, facing danger at Matsubagayatsu, was guided by a white monkey, believed to be a messenger of Sanno Gongen, to a rocky cave behind the temple. When Nichiren Shonin was starving without food, the white monkey is said to have offered him sustenance, possibly in the form of rice balls.
These distinctive rice balls are made by mixing white rice with finely chopped and seasoned green shiso, red ginger, plum, and white sesame seeds. The tradition of preparing and consuming Gonan Omusubi has been passed down through generations in the Kamakura area. It is typically eaten when someone has overcome a difficult situation, symbolizing a wish for the family's safety and security throughout the year. The name "Gonan" itself is derived from the temple's formal name, "Enpakusan Jigo-ji Gonan-in Hossho-ji."
Beyond its delicious taste, Gonan Omusubi carries a profound meaning. It serves as a symbol of hope and perseverance, reminding people to find refuge and strength, even in humble forms, during challenging times. Visitors to Kamakura are highly encouraged to try this local delicacy and connect with the unique culture and rich history embedded within it.
Greeting
It is an honor to learn about your vision, Chishin Hirai, the 52nd abbot of Ankokuron-ji Temple. Your 26 years as an international missionary for Nichiren Shoshu clearly highlight your dedication to spreading the teachings.
It's truly admirable that, after planning many more years abroad, you are now focused on transforming Ankokuron-ji Temple into a haven of peace and tranquility not only for the deceased but also for the living. Your commitment to connecting with many people and making Ankokuron-ji a welcoming destination for visitors will undoubtedly enrich the community and beyond.
Chishin Hirai Profile
Born in Saga Prefecture in 1963, Chishin Hirai is a distinguished scholar, having graduated from Hiroshima University and completed graduate studies at Rissho University.
He was newly ordained as a teacher of Nichiren Shoshu in 1989. In November 1992, he moved to the U.S., embarking on 25 years of dedicated overseas missionary work. During this time, he served as the head of several significant Nichiren Shoshu establishments, including:
- Puunene Church (Maui, Hawaii, U.S.A.)
- Nichiren Shoshu Hawaii Betsuin (Maui, Hawaii, U.S.A.)
- London Church (U.K.)
- The International Center (California, U.S.A.)
- The Kaikyo Missionary Center
- The Hawaii branch
In 2019, Chishin Hirai became the 52nd successor to the Dharma light at Myohokekyozan Ankokuronji Temple.