Komyo-ji is a Buddhist temple whose mother temple is Nishi-hongan-ji in Kyoto. The temple follows the teachings of Jodo-shin sect established by Shinran (1173-1262). Shinran was one of the greatest Buddhist monks in those days who were reaching out to ordinary people. Buddhism for people who had to do whatever they could for survival including something low-down, not for the nobles or authorities, was gaining momentus at that time.
The followers of Jodo-shin sect worship Amitabha Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Light, whose pure land lies in the direction of west. Amitabha comes to take you to the pure land when you are about to leave this world. In the pure land of Amitabha's, you are safe and pursue enlightenment under Amitabha's guidance.
The head priest of Komyo-ji requested Ando to meet the three conditions:
The hall has to be wooden;
The hall has to be light and friendly since the hall is where people gather;
And Saijo's abundant spring water, for which the city is known, should be used.
According to the principle of their sect, the hall must be very open, as the statue of the Buddha can be seen easily even from outside. In fact, through the square poles, you see the Buddha in the hall facing you. Between the hall and you is a shallow pool of spring water, constantly welling up. The hall is cheerful and is made to let natural light in.
Beside the main hall made of laminated lumber, there stand other structures made of concrete, Ando's attribute.
Together, they create a spiritual realm of faith. The premises feel so peaceful and calm.
First you take off your shoes at the entrance, proceed in the concrete building on the right and come out of it through the door where the bell in this photo hangs. On the left is the main hall. You open a tall, heavy door to go in there.
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| The main hall seen from outside |
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