When Nichiren Shoshu Buddhists go on a pilgrimage to the Head Temple (Tozan), they have the opportunity to attend a special Buddhist ceremony called Ushitora Gongyo.
Ushitora Gongyo is a great tradition which has been observed since the time of Nichiren Daishonin, over 700 years ago. At the Head Temple Taisekiji, Ushitora Gongyo is held at the Reception Hall (Kyakuden – pictured above) and is officiated by the High Priest during the hours of the Ox and the Tiger.
Ushitora, translated literally as ‘Ox and Tiger,’ indicates the time centered around three in the morning; this is the time between the hours of the Ox (1:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.) and the hours of the Tiger (3:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.). These hours have been designated as the time of the arrival of the light and the departure of the dark. This is the time when the darkness of night gradually vanishes and when the sun in the eastern sky makes its appearance in the form of dawn; it is the transition time in the movement of nature, between night and day and between dark and light.
Read more about Tozan and Ushitora Gongyo.
Visit Our Buddhist Temple
To learn about Buddhism and Buddhist pilgrimages, visit our Buddhist Temple Saturday, April 9th, at 2:00 pm. There will be a brief video presentation on Buddhism’s Beliefs & Origins and our Chief Priest will teach you how to chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and properly use the Juzu Beads, Buddhist prayer beads. You will have the opportunity to ask questions directly of our Chief Priest. The meeting starts at 2:00 pm and concludes around 3:15 pm. Open to the public.
If you have decided to become a Buddhist or are interested in learning how to become a Buddhist, Rev Murata will be performing the Acceptance of the Precept Ceremony, the ceremony where you become a Buddhist, immediately following the meeting.
