What question did this study set out to answer?

To highlight the significance of nenbutsu within the esoteric Tendai tradition and its unique rituals.

March 26, 2026Open Access

The Esoteric Nenbutsu in Tendai

Key Points

To highlight the significance of nenbutsu within the esoteric Tendai tradition and its unique rituals.
Review of historical Buddhist texts and sectarian influences.
Analysis of the ritual practices in esoteric Tendai.
Comparison with Shingon Buddhism's perspective on nenbutsu.
Identified key differences between esoteric nenbutsu in Tendai and Shingon Buddhism.
Demonstrated the importance of the Genshi Kimyōdan ritual in understanding Tendai practices.
Revealed new insights into syncretic trends in Chinese Buddhist history.

Abstract

Until recently, our view of Chinese Buddhist history was overly influenced by sectarian categories inherited by Japanese Buddhism, which clearly distinguished Zen/Chan, Pure Land, and esoteric Buddhism (mostly Shingon 真言). Recently, scholars have begun to study syncretistic trends known as “esoteric Zen” and “esoteric nenbutsu.” However, the latter has so far been mostly examined within the framework of Shingon Buddhism. This paper will emphasize the importance of nenbutsu in the esoteric Tendai school (Taimitsu 台密), particularly in a secret ritual called “Genshi Kimyōdan” 玄旨帰命壇.

The Esoteric Nenbutsu in Tendai

Key Points

Abstract

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