Whispers of ancient prayers carried on the breeze. We stand before Zojoji Temple. This temple is more than just a building. It is a living testament to Tokyo’s vibrant history.
Zojoji Temple was founded in 1393. It initially served as a seminary for the Jodo Shu sect. This sect emphasizes the recitation of Nembutsu. “Namu Amida Butsu” is the prayer. Reciting this prayer allows all people to achieve salvation. Amida Buddha’s benevolence extends to everyone without discrimination. It promises rebirth in Gokuraku-jodo. This is the Pure Land of Bliss after death.
In 1598, Tokugawa Ieyasu relocated Zojoji Temple to its present site. He chose it as his family temple. After that Zojoji became the Tokugawa family temple. It was a grand cathedral. It also became an administrative center. It governed the religious studies and activities of Jodo Shu. The temple’s grounds once covered 826000 square meters. There were 48 smaller temples. Around 150 grammar schools stood here too. Three thousand priests and novices lived here. They were all students.
However, the Tokugawa shogunate ended. The Meiji Era began. An anti-Buddhist movement arose. Air raids during World War II burned down the cathedral. Temples and the mausoleum of the Tokugawa family were affected.
But Zojoji Temple was reborn. The cathedral and other structures have been rebuilt. Today, Zojoji continues as the main temple of Jodo Shu. It is the central seminary for priests and novices. The metropolis of Tokyo embraces it. It serves as a hub for religious and cultural activities.
Notice the Sangedatsumon. It is Zojoji Temple’s main gate. It cleanses anyone passing through it. They are cleansed of worldly afflictions: greed, anger and ignorance. The gate was built in 1622. It is the only original temple building remaining. It is one of Tokyo’s oldest wooden structures. This makes it an Important Cultural Property.
Take note of the Daibonsho. This giant bell has a diameter of 1.76 meters. It has a height of 3.33 meters. Its weight is 15 tons. It is tolled twice a day. This happens six times each in the early morning and evening. It purifies earthly passions.
Don’t miss the Kyozo. It was built in 1613. It has revolving bookshelves at its center. It is designated as a cultural property.
Inside the Daiden or Main Hall, you’ll find the image of Amida Buddha. This image dates back to the Muromachi Period. People deeply revere these images at Zojoji Temple.
The Ankokuden enshrines the Black Image of Amida Buddha. Ieyasu Tokugawa deeply worshiped it. It brings victory and wards off evils.
Consider visiting the Treasures Gallery. Here, you can see a detailed model of the Taitokuin Mausoleum. It is a 1:10 scale model. The original mausoleum was the burial site of Tokugawa Hidetada.
Finally, remember the Five Hundred Arhat Scrolls. They depict worldly desires and ways to overcome them. The scrolls survived the war. They are displayed in the Treasures Gallery.
Zojoji Temple stands as a symbol of resilience. It is a reminder of Tokyo’s past and a beacon for its future. Let us carry the echoes of Zojoji Temple with us. Its history inspires a sense of peace.