An attempt to unify the Nichiren sects, the Kansho Accords (1466) and the Petition to the Emperor (1596)..

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illarraza
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An attempt to unify the Nichiren sects, the Kansho Accords (1466) and the Petition to the Emperor (1596)..

Post by illarraza »

The Kansho Accords 1446:

1. Our sect's founder taught the identity of the essential and theoretical teachings; yet one or the other can be regarded as superior depending upon a person's capacities and level of understanding. [Ed note: this refers to the then ongoing issues of the itsu/shoretsu debates]
2. Monks and lay followers alike should join forces in adopting the sole practice of shakabuku.
3. We all agree to strictly observe the prohibition against making pilgrimages to the temples and shrines of the slanderers of the Dharma. [Ed note: this is a reference to the Nembutsu, Zen and Shingon sects]
4. The offerings of slanderers of the Dharma may not be accepted, with the sole exception of donations made as an expression of secular virtues such as humanity, righteousness, love and propriety. [Ed note: this refers to the then raging debate over just what constituted fujufuse.]
5. Though the Dharma principle comprises both aggressive and accommodating approaches, the aggressive approach is the proper one.
6. As for the laity, they should not forsake their original teacher under whom they first roused the thought of enlightenment, and if they should try to do so, the new temple should not permit it. If however, in consultation parties agree, both temples may receive alms from that person.

Hokkeshu Sojo or the Petition to the Emperor Concerning the Lotus Sect 1596.

1. Truth in Buddhism is not determined by human judgment but by the Buddha's words alone, as recorded in the ultimately true scriptures;
2. The Buddha Sakyamuni has a profound link to our world, while Amida, the Buddha of the Pure Land sects does not;
3. There are provisional and ultimate teachings within Buddhism;
4. The Hokke Shu was established by the Buddha Sakyamuni as stated in the Lotus Sutra, not by a human teacher as was the case for the Pure Land sects;
5. The teachings of the Hokke Shu are transmitted in a double fashion, the essential transmission a direct one from Sakyamuni based upon the Lotus Sutra, and an indirect, intellectual transmission based upon the writings of the patriarchs of the Tendai sect;
6. The Hokke Shu is superior to all others;
7. The Hokke Shu may not have any association with slanderers. [hence should be exempt from participating in the ceremonies at the Great Buddha statue.]
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