JODO SHINSHU IN AMERICAN SOCIETY

Me declares: “This self who is unable to distinguish right from wrong, good from evil, who has no claim even for little deeds of love and compassion and yet who is willing just for name and gain to pose as a teacher.” (D. T. Suzuki, Collection , p. 122—23)

Shinran was honest with himself and could be honest with others.

2. Shinran was not an authoritarian.

Though he declared his faith firmly and positively, he was not a dogmatist, condemning those who might disagree with him.

He constantly declared his own position, frequently prefacing a point by stating: As for me Shinran (Shinran ni okite wa. Shinran could take a stand -- stand up for what he believed:

As for myself, Shimran, I simply receive the words

of my dear teacher, Honen, etc. ( Tannisho , II)

I, Shinran, have never ever once uttered the

Nembutsu for the sake of my father and mother

( Tannisho , V)

As for myself, Shinran, I do not have a single disciple. ( Tannisho , VI)

I, Shinran, have been having the same question

also, and now you. ( Tannisho , X)

When Shinran was questioned, he did not impose his answer, demanding agreement. He said menmen no onhakarai nari.

.In essence, such is the true entrusting of this foolish one. Now whether you accept the Nembutsu, entrusting yourself to it, or reject it, that is your own decision. ( Tannisho , II)

We should note that Shinran said that he had not one disciple. He saw each person’s faith on the same level with his own. He was not in a position to control that person. It turns out he could not excommunicate the disciple who opposed him.

3. He had firm convictions.

Eshin—ni records that he pursued his search for enlightenment, ignoring the criticisms of others as he left Mt. Hiei.

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