Adelaide Shin Buddhist Dojo

Pure Land Buddhism in South Australia

About Shin Buddhism and Membership

What is a dojo?

A dojo is a very small temple where people meet to listen to and practice the teachings of the Buddha.

Jokyo-an, which is the name of our dojo, welcomes everyone who seeks to follow (or has an interest in) the teaching of Shinran Shonin (1173-1263), the founder of the school that became known as Shin Buddhism.

What is Shin Buddhism?

Although it is not well known or understood outside of east Asia, the Pure Land school overall attracts the largest following in the world-wide Buddhist community and is especially popular in China, Taiwan and Japan. It takes many forms and has often been a lay movement, beginning in China early in the fifth century with the formation by Hui-yüan of the White Lotus Society.

Shinran surveyed the historical development of the Pure Land teaching, identified its most salient features, and demonstrated its inherent consistency, clarifying its relevance for ordinary working women and men. That is Shin Buddhism. It was founded almost 800 years ago and has been a popular school of Buddhism ever since.

What is Shin Buddhism now?

Shin Buddhism is a mainstream school of Pure Land Buddhism. It currently has a total world-wide membership of more than twenty-five million people, with many temples, schools, universities, and other organisations.

How can I find out more about Shin Buddhism?

If you are not familiar with Shin Buddhism we suggest that you begin your explorations at the Nishi Hongwanji web site and then follow-up with a visit to Notes on the Nembutsu and other web sites listed here.

Are there conditions of membership? Are there any exclusions?

Shin Buddhism does not discriminate in any way; it is a dharma of universal relevance. The decision to listen to the teaching is a personal choice for each of us.

What are the obligations of membership?

Membership is free. Your engagement with the teaching is entirely a matter for you.

The nature of the relationship between members of the Shin community, whether ordained or lay, is one of friendship and equality (on dobo-dogyo).

How can I join?

Please register your membership before your first visit.

Dharma sessions are held twice a month on Sunday mornings.

The resident priest in Adelaide is George Gatenby.