“Exile.” The word hangs heavy in the air, doesn’t it? Right here, before the 円光大師 旧跡 なごりの ごみょうこう Stele, we’re reminded of a poignant chapter in history. This unassuming stone marks the former site of a temple, a refuge for a fallen priest named Henjo. In 674, during the reign of Emperor Tenmu, this temple was founded. Henjo, a scholar of the Hossō sect of Buddhism, sought solace within its walls. However, fate, it seems, had other plans.
In 1207, Henjo was accused of neglecting his religious duties. He was stripped of his priestly title and banished from the capital. Imagine his despair as he was forced to leave the only home he had known. Henjo eventually found refuge at this very temple. He spent his final days here, surrounded by his devoted followers. Over time, the temple fell into disrepair. Yet, Henjo’s story resonated with a monk named Jitsuzan.
Touched by Henjo’s plight, Jitsuzan restored the temple and dedicated it to Henjo’s memory. The 円光大師 旧跡 なごりの ごみょうこう Stele stands as a testament to the cyclical nature of life. It speaks of exile and redemption, loss and remembrance.