Hearing Alone
In this lecture I discuss “hearing alone,” one of the most important teachings of Shinran Shonin (1173-1262). Shinran considers shinjin (awakening) the most important thing in Buddhism and identifies it with “hearing.” When we stop relying on limited human wisdom and rely on the Buddha’s wisdom by hearing our teachers’ words, we can experience a deep spiritual awakening. I begin by discussing the Indian Buddhist background of Shinran’s view of “hearing.” Then I explain how Shinran’s emphasis on the exclusive importance of “hearing” developed through the three stages of his life. –NH
Title of this lecture: “Hearing Alone”
(Orange County Buddhist Church, March 12, 2016)
Lecture Material
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5