New Year’s Greeting From Gomonshu Kojun Ohtani

Happy New Year! At the beginning of the New Year, I would like to extend my warm regards to  you all. 

As in previous years, many people throughout the world have been affected by natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods, and forest fires. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to all who have perished in those calamities. I would also like to express my sympathies to those who are still coping with the dire situations. It is my sincere hope that all who have been affected will soon be able to return to normalcy. 

In addition to the continuing Russian invasion of Ukraine that began in February 2022, armed conflict in the Middle East since October 2023 has intensified, putting a toll on civilians. As Buddhists,  let us embrace the words of Sakyamuni Buddha that “Everyone fears violence and is scared of death. In consideration of all life, do not kill and do not make others kill.” 

We, as human beings who have received life in this world, shall have our human rights equally guaranteed regardless of reason, and must never have our lives threatened. However, in reality, conflicts and terrorist attacks have occurred everywhere in the world and for many people, their right to live and exist has been threatened. As Buddhists as well as Nembutsu followers who aspire to achieve peace, we must keep seriously in our hearts the words of Sakyamuni Buddha as well as Shinran Shonin who aspired for a peaceful world in pursuing our endeavor of contributing toward world peace and security. 

Through the Jodo Shinshu teaching, we are guided to appreciate Amida Buddha’s working that enables us to become aware of our true self. Being caught up in our self-centered thinking and desires, we are unable to accept the Universal Truth of dependent origination and impermanence, and that is  why we constantly suffer from our human desires. 

Unable to leave us in such a state, Amida Buddha continuously works to lead us to the Dharma. By regarding each individual as a fellow traveler following the same path being guided and embraced by Amida Buddha, we are enabled to respect and help each other while courageously coping with difficult social issues. Let us continue listening and appreciating Amida Buddha’s working as  Buddhist followers while cherishing each and every day. 

January 1, 2025 

OHTANI Kojun 

Monshu 

Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha