“Is this really the place?” someone asks looking at the 金光寺. It stands here quietly in Osaka. It has stood for a long time. I am here to tell you its story. It is a story reaching back centuries.
金光寺 will celebrate its 550th anniversary in 2025. It was first established a very long time ago. The 金光寺 belongs to the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha sect. This is a branch of Japanese Buddhism. Shinran Shonin founded it during the Kamakura period.
The sect teaches “Other Power Hongan.” It means people reach paradise through Amida Buddha’s compassion. Faith in Amida Buddha is key. Reciting “Namo Amida Butsu” shows respect. It shows faith in Amida Buddha. People believe this recitation brings salvation through Buddha’s compassion.
The sect’s head temple is Hongwanji. It is in Kyoto’s Shimogyo district. People also call it “Nishi Hongwanji” or “O-Nishi-san.”
金光寺 has undergone many changes. In July 2015, the head temple approved changes to 金光寺’s regulations. In September of the same year, the governor certified the relocation. The relocation was registered with the Legal Affairs Bureau in October 2015. 金光寺 received a letter of appreciation from the head temple. This was for its connection. The main deity was moved to the current 金光寺.
金光寺 is now starting a new chapter. It maintains the Dharma lamp. This lamp has burned for over 500 years. It is a place for reflection and chanting.
Rennyo Shonin was the 8th head of Hongwanji. He opened Osaka to the teachings. In 1475, he moved to Kawachi Province. This was in Izumida County, Nakashibori Village. The village is near Kaita and Kousenji temples.
金光寺’s Dharma lamp was first lit then. After World War II, the temple underwent changes. These changes ensured its survival. In 2015, 金光寺 followed the guidance of the 25th head. The temple moved to its current location. It is in Neyagawa City, Nishikinomiya.
金光寺 continues to cherish its history. It embraces its role as a place of worship. It is a place of peace. The 22nd abbot, Chiba Shojin, wrote about its history. He hoped its teachings would spread far. He wanted it to last for generations.
金光寺’s main deity is Amida Nyorai. The temple belongs to the Hongwanji-ha sect. It falls under the Osaka district. The 23rd abbot is Chiba Shuso. He is also a Hongwanji-ha missionary. The temple is located at 10-10 Nishikinomiya, Neyagawa City, Osaka Prefecture. Please call ahead before visiting 金光寺. This is the enduring story of 金光寺. It is a beacon of faith. It is a testament to time.