Ever wonder about a temple linked to a legendary warrior? That’s Shingonji.
Welcome to Shingonji Temple. It is formally known as Kounzan Fukujuin Shingonji. Today it is a temple of the Shingi Shingon sect.
The history of Shingonji Temple has several accounts of its origin. One tale says it was founded by Sakanoe no Tamuramaro. He was a warrior who was active in the pacification of the northeast. This account is written in “Ogawa-go Shingonji Engi”. It was written by the twenty-second head priest, Hideaki, in 1751.
Shingonji Temple has seen periods of prosperity and decline. During the Kenmu era it was revived by Kakuhan Ajari. Kakuhan is considered the founder of the temple.
The name Ogawa is unique. It may refer to a place where water flows out. It could also mean a large river or a pocket along a river. The area around Shingonji Temple may have once belonged to Ota-sho or Agi-sho.
In 1823, Matsudaira Tadaakira, lord of Iga, ordered a survey of the area. The survey included Shingonji Temple. The records state that Ogawa Saemon’s family resided here long ago.
During the Edo period, Ogawa became part of the Iga domain. Shingonji Temple was granted a stipend of ten koku in 1604. During visits to Edo Castle, the head priest of Shingonji Temple was seated in the Gekiro seat of Hiroshiki.
Shingonji Temple observes several annual events.
On New Year’s Day, the temple holds a goma fire ritual. This ritual occurs at 10 AM and 11:30 AM. People can write their wishes on wooden tablets for the ritual. Wishes include disaster removal and good health.
The first Kannon ceremony is held on January 18th. The temple also performs a segaki feeding ritual. This occurs from 2 PM on August 15th.
From September to December, Shingonji Temple hosts lectures on the Heart Sutra. These lectures occur on the 18th of each month. Anyone can participate in these lectures.
On New Year’s Eve, a Joya no Kane bell-ringing ceremony is held. The fire for the ceremony starts around 11 PM. The bell ringing begins around 11:30 PM. People believe this event cleanses them for the New Year.
The Joya no Kane bell is rung 108 times. Each ring is said to represent one of the 108 earthly desires. By ringing the bell, people can purify themselves.
Today Shingonji continues to be a place of worship. It offers spiritual guidance to the community. Shingonji Temple is a place to reflect on the past and look forward to the future.