Kegon

What is Kegon?

Kegon, also known as Huayan in Chinese, is a school of Buddhism that originated in China and was later adopted in Japan. It is based on the teachings of the Avatamsaka Sutra, also known as the Flower Garland Sutra, which describes the interdependence and interconnectedness of all phenomena in the universe.

The term "Kegon" comes from the Japanese pronunciation of the Chinese word "Huayan," which means "flower garland" or "flower ornament." This name symbolizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all things, just like how flowers are connected to each other in a garland.

Kegon Buddhism emphasizes the concept of Indra's net, which describes the interconnectedness of all things in the universe. According to this concept, each individual entity in the universe is like a jewel in a net, reflecting and being reflected by all other jewels in the net. This means that every action, thought, and phenomenon has an impact on the entire universe.

The main practice in Kegon Buddhism is meditation, which helps practitioners to cultivate a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all things. Through meditation, practitioners aim to achieve a state of mind that is free from attachment and delusion, known as "enlightenment."

Kegon Buddhism also places a strong emphasis on the concept of emptiness, which is the idea that all phenomena are empty of inherent existence. This means that nothing exists independently and everything is interconnected and interdependent. This concept is closely related to the Buddhist concept of impermanence, which teaches that everything is constantly changing and nothing remains the same.

In addition to meditation, Kegon Buddhism also includes rituals and ceremonies, as well as the study and recitation of sutras. The practice of compassion and the cultivation of wisdom are also important aspects of Kegon Buddhism.

Kegon Buddhism has had a significant influence on Japanese culture, particularly in the areas of art, literature, and philosophy. It has also been integrated with other schools of Buddhism, such as Zen and Pure Land, to form a unique and diverse Buddhist tradition in Japan.

In conclusion, Kegon is a school of Buddhism that emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all things in the universe. Its teachings and practices aim to help individuals achieve a deep understanding of this concept and ultimately attain enlightenment.