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Pure Land Haiku: The Art of Priest Issa

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Pure Land Haiku: The Art of Priest Issa

by David G. Lanoue

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Pure Land haiku is a form of haiku poetry that is inspired by the Pure Land Buddhist tradition. Pure Land Buddhism is a Mahayana Buddhist sect that originated in China and spread to Japan in the 6th century. The Pure Land tradition emphasizes the importance of faith and devotion to Amitabha Buddha, who is believed to reside in a pure land called Sukhavati. Practitioners of Pure Land Buddhism believe that by reciting Amitabha's name and cultivating compassion, they can be reborn in Sukhavati after death.

Haiku is a form of Japanese poetry that consists of three lines of 5, 7, and 5 syllables, respectively. Haiku often focus on nature and the changing seasons. Pure Land haiku incorporates the themes of Pure Land Buddhism into the traditional haiku form.

Priest Issa

Issa (1763-1828) was one of the most famous Pure Land haiku poets. He was born in the village of Kashiwabara in Shinano Province, Japan. Issa's father died when he was three years old, and his mother remarried when he was eight. Issa did not get along with his stepfather, and he left home at the age of 15.

Issa traveled around Japan for many years, working as a farmer, a fisherman, and a teacher. He also studied Zen Buddhism and Pure Land Buddhism. In 1801, Issa settled in the village of Kusatsu, where he spent the rest of his life.

Issa was a prolific writer, and he published over 10,000 haiku during his lifetime. His haiku are known for their simplicity, humor, and insight into the human condition. Issa's haiku often focus on the themes of compassion, rebirth, and enlightenment.

The Art of Pure Land Haiku

Pure Land haiku is a unique form of poetry that combines the aesthetics of haiku with the teachings of Pure Land Buddhism. Pure Land haiku poets strive to create poems that are both beautiful and meaningful. They use simple language and imagery to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility.

Some of the most common themes in Pure Land haiku include:

* Compassion * Rebirth * Enlightenment * The Pure Land * Amitabha Buddha

Pure Land haiku poets also often use humor and irony to express their insights into the human condition.

The Legacy of Pure Land Haiku

Pure Land haiku has had a profound impact on Japanese literature and culture. Issa's haiku are still widely read and admired today, and they have inspired many other poets to write Pure Land haiku. Pure Land haiku is also popular among Western Buddhists, who appreciate its simplicity and its focus on compassion and enlightenment.

Pure Land haiku is a beautiful and meaningful form of poetry that can help us to connect with the teachings of Pure Land Buddhism. Issa's haiku are a timeless treasure that can inspire us to live a life of compassion and wisdom.

Pure Land Haiku: The Art of Priest Issa

by David G. Lanoue

4.6 out of 5