Japanese Archaeology and Special Exhibition (Heiseikan) Special Exhibition Galleries
October 25, 2011 (Tue) - December 4, 2011 (Sun)
Honen is known as the father of Kamakura Buddhism. Amid the turbulent times of the late Heian period at the end of the 12th century, he spread the belief that salvation could be achieved by reciting prayers to Buddha. Shinran, who learned under Honen, developed practices and philosophies reflecting the society of the early Kamakura period.
2011 marks the 800th memorial year of Honen, the founder of the Jodo sect, and the 750th memorial of Shinran, who founded Jodo Shin sect. In this commemorative year, for the first time, this exhibition features the two foremost figures of Kamakura Buddhism will be introduced for the first time together in a special exhibition, which narrates their lives through related treasures.
Left:Zenshin Shonin e (Illustrated Story of Master Zenshin [Shinran]), Rin'a edition Volumes 1(detail)
Inscriptions by Kakunyo, Kamakura period, 14th century, Important Cultural Property, Nishi Honganji Temple, Kyoto
(Volume 1 : on exhibit from October 25 to November 13, 2011)
(Volume 2 : on exhibit from November 15 to December 4, 2011)