IKEBANA has a long history. It began in the 8th century. Supposedly, it grew out of Buddhism with people offering flowers at the
alter. It reminds us of the beauty of Buddha's Land and of Buddha's goodness. It also reminds us that living things do not last
forever (IMPERMANENCE). In the past, only natural materials were used. They were arranged in a way that reflected the harmony
of nature. For example, the blossoms were turned inwards as if "looking at each other". One of the main ideas is that the 3 main
branches or sprays of flowers stand for sky, earth and mankind.
Today, there are 3 Ikebana schools - Ikenobo, Ohara, and Sogetsu. The head master of the Ikenobo Ikebana school was also the
head minister of Rokkakudo Temple. This temple influenced Shinran Shonin's life. When he was 29 years old, Shinran Shonin
decided to spend 100 days in seclusion or privacy at Rokkakudo Temple. On the 95th day, Prince Shotoku appeared to Shinran in
a dream. Prince Shotoku was important to Shinran because he introduced Buddhism to Japan. Shinran thought he was being told
to look for Honen Shonin and hear his teachings of the Nembutsu.
In Gassho
Nariyuki Hattori
