Shugendo is a uniquely Japanese system of religious and ascetic practice, based on ancient Japanese mountain worship and developed through a fusion of elements from Buddhism (especially esoteric Buddhism), Shintoism, and Taoism. The mysteries of its origins, practices, and supernatural powers continue to fascinate many people. In this issue, we will explore the mysteries of Shugendo, its history, its practices, and its significance today.
The Mystery of Shugendo: Origins and History
The origin of Shugendo is said to date back to the Asuka Period around the 7th century. According to legend, the founder of Shugendo was Enno Ozunu, also known as Enno Gyoja. Enno Ozunu was a sorcerer who is said to have been born around 634, and many legends accompany his character. Shugendo was based on ancient Japanese mountain worship and developed while incorporating elements of Buddhism (especially esoteric Buddhism) and Taoism. It was believed that mountains were sacred places where one could attain supernatural powers through rigorous ascetic practices. In the Heian period (794-1185), Shugendo became even more popular. During this period, the idea of the union of Shintoism and Buddhism became widespread, and Shugendo was influenced by this idea and developed in its own unique way. Mountain ascetics were called “yamabushi” or “shugensha,” and their appearance became deeply rooted in medieval Japanese society. During the Kamakura period (1185-1333), the two major forces of Shugendo were formed: the head temple Shugendo and Tosan Shugendo. During the Edo period (1603-1868), the religious policies of the shogunate strengthened the ties between Shugendo and Buddhist temples. During the Edo period (1603-1868), the Shogunate’s religious policy strengthened ties with Buddhist temples.
Mystery of Shugendo (2): Mountain Beliefs and Shugyo
The core of Shugendo lies in the severe ascetic practices in the mountains. Shugendo practitioners train their bodies and minds under harsh conditions, such as entering steep mountains, being dashed by waterfalls, and fasting. Through these practices, Shugendo practitioners become one with the forces of nature and strive for spiritual awakening. The main characteristics of Shugendo are as follows Mountain worship: Mountains are considered sacred places, and ascetic practices in them are emphasized. Shinto/Buddhism syncretism: A unique belief system that combines elements of Shinto and Buddhism. Spellcraft: Spellcraft practices, such as amulets and incantations, are also an important part of the religion. Harmony with nature: By practicing in the great outdoors, they seek to master the providence of the universe. Typical practices include the following
Mountain asceticism: asceticism in sacred mountains is one of the most important practices of Shugendo. Omine (Nara Prefecture), Mt. Haguro (Yamagata Prefecture), and Mt.Hidehiko (Fukuoka Prefecture)
Waterfall practice: The practice of being battered by waterfalls is an important practice for purifying the body and mind and unifying the spirit. Fire-walking: Walking barefoot over a fire is considered an achievement of the ascetic practices.
Fasting and meditation: Fasting for a long period of time and meditation are practiced to detach oneself from daily desires and enhance spirituality.
Mystery of Shugendo (3): The Mystery of the Supernatural Powers of the Mountain Priests
Shugendo has many mysteries and mysterious legends. It was believed that Shugendo practitioners could obtain supernatural powers through their ascetic practices. For example, the power to cure illness and the ability to foretell the future. Some schools of Shugendo practiced a special form of sokushin buddhism called sokushinbutsu. This is the ultimate ascetic practice that aims to become a Buddha while still alive. It is especially prevalent in the Tohoku region and is considered the ultimate form of ascetic practice. In Shugendo, it is believed that there are special teachings and techniques that are transmitted in secret from master to disciple. The content of these secret rituals is still not fully revealed, but they are considered important means of drawing supernatural power.
Mystery of Shugendo (4): Major sacred mountains that are the center of Shugendo belief in the Kansai region
The following three sacred mountains are important as the center of Shugendo belief in the Kansai region.
Mount Kongo (Osaka and Nara Prefectures)
Mt. Kongo is an important training site representing “Katsuragi Shugendo,” where Enno Gyoja, the founder of Shugendo, is said to have first practiced asceticism. The mountain is also known as one of the best climbing spots in the Kansai region, attracting both Shugendo culture and ordinary climbers.
Yoshino and Omine Mountains (Nara Prefecture)
The area from Mt. Yoshino to Omine is a sacred site with a history of more than 1,300 years as a fundamental center of Shugendo. Of particular importance are the following three sites Kinpusenji Temple: Located halfway up Mt. Yoshino, this temple is considered the head temple of Shugendo.
Omine (Mt. Yamagamigatake): This is a sacred mountain where the founder of Shugendo, En no Gyoja, is said to have attained Kongo Zao Daigongen.
Omine Okugakemichi: An important pilgrimage route of Shugendo from Yoshino to Kumano, it is registered as a World Cultural Heritage site. These sacred mountains are the center of Shugendo, a fusion of Shintoism, Buddhism, and other religions with the reverence that Japanese people have held for mountains since ancient times. Even today, many shugendo practitioners and worshippers visit these mountains to practice and pray in the midst of nature.
Shugendo is one of the most mysterious and fascinating aspects of Japanese religious culture. Its origins are ancient, its practices are rigorous, and it is filled with much mystery. As an important part of Japan’s spiritual culture, it will continue to have a profound influence on people’s hearts and minds. Its mystical appeal has fascinated us throughout the ages and offers profound insights into the relationship between nature and mankind, and the power within us all.
