Six Schools of Nara Buddhism

Definition

The Six Schools of Nara Buddhism refers to a collection of Buddhist traditions that emerged during the Nara period (710-794) in Japan, characterized by the influence of various continental Buddhist teachings. These schools played a pivotal role in establishing Buddhism as a prominent religious and philosophical force in Japan, integrating diverse doctrines and practices from East Asian traditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Six Schools include Hossō, Kegon, Ritsu, Sanron, Jōjitsu, and Shingon, each representing distinct interpretations and practices of Buddhism.
2. Hossō is known for its philosophical focus on consciousness and the nature of reality, while Kegon is recognized for its teachings on the interconnectedness of all phenomena.
3. Ritsu emphasizes monastic discipline and ethical conduct, shaping the moral framework for Buddhist practitioners during the Nara period.
4. Sanron centers around the concept of emptiness (śūnyatā), drawing heavily from Mahayana philosophy and its interpretations of Buddhist texts.
5. Jōjitsu focuses on the literal meaning of sutras and emphasizes understanding through texts, contributing to the scholarly study of Buddhism in Japan.

Review Questions

• How did the Six Schools of Nara Buddhism contribute to the development of Buddhist thought in Japan?
  • The Six Schools of Nara Buddhism significantly shaped Buddhist thought in Japan by introducing diverse interpretations and practices that enriched the spiritual landscape. Each school brought unique teachings that addressed different aspects of human experience and enlightenment. This variety allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of Buddhism, fostering intellectual discourse and establishing a foundation for later developments in Japanese Buddhism.
• Compare and contrast two of the Six Schools of Nara Buddhism in terms of their key teachings and practices.
  • Hossō and Kegon represent two distinct approaches within the Six Schools. Hossō focuses on consciousness and reality's nature, developing a sophisticated philosophical system centered around mental processes. In contrast, Kegon emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things, based on its interpretation of the Avataṃsaka Sutra. While Hossō delves into abstract philosophy, Kegon encourages practitioners to perceive unity in diversity, showcasing different ways of engaging with Buddhist teachings.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the Six Schools of Nara Buddhism on subsequent Japanese religious traditions.
  • The Six Schools of Nara Buddhism laid critical groundwork for future Japanese religious traditions by establishing frameworks for understanding Buddhist philosophy and practice. Their teachings influenced later schools like Tendai and Shingon, which adopted elements from the Nara traditions while developing their unique identities. Additionally, this early synthesis of continental influences into Japanese Buddhism facilitated cultural exchange and adaptation that shaped religious practices well beyond the Nara period.

Related terms

Tendai Buddhism: A major school of Japanese Buddhism founded by Saicho, which emphasizes the Lotus Sutra and promotes a comprehensive approach to Buddhist practice.

Shingon Buddhism: A form of Esoteric Buddhism founded by Kukai, focusing on rituals, meditation, and the use of mantras for attaining enlightenment.

Sutra: Sacred texts in Buddhism that contain teachings attributed to the Buddha, often forming the basis for various schools' doctrines.