How could a temple that was once falling into ruin become the center of a religious movement? That is the story of \u672c\u5c71 \u5ba5\u6e05\u5bfa Stele. This stele stands as a silent witness to the temple’s fascinating past.
\u672c\u5c71 \u5ba5\u6e05\u5bfa is a temple with a rich history. It began in 1308 when a disciple of Nichiren, named Nissen Shonin, founded it. At first, it was known as Seiryu-san Honmon-ji Temple. This makes it one of the oldest Nichiren temples in Kyoto.
The temple’s early days saw changes in affiliation. In 1694 it became Seiryu-san Yusei-ji Temple. It then became a branch temple of Myoren-ji Temple.
Fast forward to 1869. Nichisen Shonin designated the nearly deserted Yusei-ji Temple. It became a training center. From then on, \u672c\u5c71 \u5ba5\u6e05\u5bfa became the main center for spreading Buddhist teachings. The temple quickly gained prominence.
Successive leaders carried on Nichisen Shonin’s teachings. \u672c\u5c71 \u5ba5\u6e05\u5bfa became central to its network of branch temples. In 1947, Honmon Butsuryu-shu separated from the Hokke sect. \u672c\u5c71 \u5ba5\u6e05\u5bfa became the Honmon Butsuryu-shu’s only Honzan.
Within \u672c\u5c71 \u5ba5\u6e05\u5bfa is a statue of Nichiren Shonin. A disciple, Nissen Shonin, carved it. Nichiren Shonin himself consecrated the statue. In 1989, it was named an Important Cultural Property. This proves it is the oldest existing statue of Nichiren.
Today, Honmon Butsuryu-shu has about 10000 clergy members and over 500000 followers. Together, they promote the teachings of the Lotus Sutra. They strive to save people and create a better society.
There are 300 Honmon Butsuryu-shu temples and churches nationwide. There are also 10 temples in Brazil. Temples also exist in Korea, America and Taiwan. Recently, the teachings have spread to Italy, England, and Sri Lanka. The teachings of Honmon Butsuryu-shu are expanding worldwide.
Considered the main deity is the Ju界 Dai Mandara. Also housed at \u672c\u5c71 \u5ba5\u6e05\u5bfa is a wooden statue of Nichiren. Dating back to the Kamakura period, it is the oldest of its kind.
The \u672c\u5c71 \u5ba5\u6e05\u5bfa Stele reminds us of the temple’s resilience. It also marks its central role in the Honmon Butsuryu-shu sect. From near ruin to a main center, its story is truly remarkable.