[Shao Shan Temple is grateful for the
connection with Shinjo Nohara (who trained with Taihaku) and Ryuunji
Temple, of which Shinjo is the abbot. This is one of several blog
entries on Ryuunji while Kenzan is helping there.]
Spring at Ryuunji Temple in Misumi, Japan is heralded by a profusion of azalea blossoms and the frequent resounding of a very large hanging bell. This large bell (“bonsho”) is unusual in several respects – it is rare that visitors to a Temple in Japan are allowed to ring a temple bell, but this is specifically a peace bell that all are invited to ring. Forged shortly after the end of World War II (~1950), this 900 pound bell was located in a nearby town on a high ocean bluff where cannons had been during the war. The location for overgrown and uncared for and the town looked for another place for the bell to be. They specifically approached Shinjo and asked whether the bell could be at his temple and last November the bell was moved to Ryuunji. Next to the Peace Bell is also a peace pole with “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in 24 different languages because Shinjo wants those who visit to see something in their own language and to feel welcome (*). Although there are several other peace bells in Japan, this is the only one that is associated with a Buddhist temple and Buddhists from other sects also come here for its installation ceremony.
When ringing a bonsho, Soto Zen monks chant “Sanzu hannan sokku josan hokkai shujo monsho godo.” which roughly translates as: “May all living beings of the dharma realms upon hearing this sound relieved of suffering and awaken to the Way.”
The springtime air at Ryuunji reverberates with many visitors prayers for a peace filled world.
Here is Ryuunji's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ryuunji.misumi/
