2010年5月14日金曜日

800-year Buddhist memorial service recreated

Monks in western Japan have reenacted a memorial service that the founder of a Buddhism sect held for the emperor about 800 years ago.

Monks of the Jodo sect, founded by the holy priest Honen, took part in the first-ever reproduction of the ritual at Chokodo Temple in Kyoto City on Thursday.

The service for the late emperor Goshirakawa was based on a 13th-century picture series. Depicting the life of Honen, the series is designated as a national treasure.

After an arrow was shot, traditional court music and dancing associated with a Chinese historical event were performed. The monks walked around the Buddhist image on the altar, chanting a sutra.

About 150 people watched the event.

The chief priest of the temple says the teachings of Honen still hold today and that he hopes the service made people feel closer to him.

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