MISINTERPRETED BUDDHIST WORDS OF TODAY

Nonprofit Organization
MOILIILI HONGWANJI MISSION
902 UNIVERSITY AVENUE
HONOLULU HI 96826
US POSTAGE
PAID
HONOLULU HI
PERMIT NO 430
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Telephones:
Office: . . . . . . . . . 949-1659
Preschool: . . . . . . 946-4416
Project Dana: . . . . 945-3736
Website: http://www.moiliilihongwanji.org
“MISINTERPRETED BUDDHIST WORDS OF TODAY ”
by Shaku Horaku (Rev. Eric Matsumoto)
Today, I want to share a few expressions that
we use that have a Buddhist connection, which
unfortunately in modern usage no longer are
understood with their original depth of meaning.
Hopefully, we can appreciate them by knowing the
original meaning.
The first word is “mottainai.” Although the
word “mottainai” is used very positively to mean
“not to waste” or to express the perspective that “I
am so undeserving of something, but have the
good fortune of receiving it,” the original meaning
referred to the fundamental Buddhist teaching that
there is no self-existing thing, that all things
including myself are the result of various causes
and conditions and exist in a state of mutual
interdependence. It means that all things including
me, don’t and cannot exist independently. When
we realize this very basic nature of all existence,
we are filled with gratitude, a sense of
connectedness to all others around us and a sense
of responsibility for each other. Thus, not to be in
accord with this essential way of things, that is, not
to see the non-self-existing nature of all things, is
mottainai or “wasteful.”
Another word is “akirameru”, also read “tai”,
which nowadays refers to simply “giving up”
without even trying. Originally, it was not a
defeatist or pessimistic attitude. It reflected a
profound understanding and the action or response
that was taken when one deeply realized the
situation and acted accordingly. The Chinese
character “tai” is used to refer to the Four Noble
Truths (Shitai). It has the meaning of “to be clear”
or “to clarify” as in clearly understanding. In
Buddhism, it refers to Truth.
Another closely related expression is “shikata ga
nai” which translates as “it can’t be helped.”
Originally, this expression too, had a sense of calm
acceptance, that it was okay, that one is fine with it.
For example, in the case of illness, when we say
“shikata ga nai”, as Buddhists, we mean that we
understand the nature of life. We all get old, sick
and eventually must die. It is a very natural part of
the life process. It is not a loser’s attitude or one of
giving up.
Another interesting word is “daijobu” which is
used today to variously mean “fine”, “healthy” and
“okay.” But according to the book Cocktails, “It is
originally a Buddhist term found in the Nirvana
Sutra…as one of the many names of the Buddha.
Daijobu literally means “person of great health”
and referred to the Buddha as the healthiest of
healthy in every way. The Buddhist sense of Daijobu
is being healthy in a religious sense, the ability to
say O. K. to life and death.”
Finally, a term directly connected to Jodo
Shinshu, but being used differently from the Jodo
Shinshu understanding is the word “Oojoo.”
(Continued on page 2)
VOLUME 53 - NO. 3
MAY 2009
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY
Please join us as we honor
mothers at our Mother’s Day
Service on Sunday, May 10, at
9:00 AM. Following the service
we’ll enjoy a delicious brunch
hosted by the Dharma School PTA showcasing the
cooking talents of our men folk. Don’t miss this
annual treat! Everyone is welcome.
(Continued from page 1)
“Oojoo” refers to birth in the Pure Land. In Jodo
Shinshu, we emphasize that “birth in the Pure Land”
is very simple and easy, as we entrust ourselves to
Amida Buddha’s Primal Vow and rely upon Amida
Buddha’s Compassion. In contrast to this, however,
if one were to rely upon one’s own efforts to reach
the Pure Land, it is very difficult for one has to
accumulate a vast amount of virtues and merit and
thus “Oojoo” is extremely difficult requiring much
effort in time and energy. Thus, in the popular
mind, “Oojoo” has come to mean that one had a
hard time doing something or found oneself in a
difficult situation. Again, this is not the Jodo
Shinshu understanding or appreciation of it.
To conclude, in one sense, it is fascinating how
language changes, but it is truly unfortunate in many
cases, how the meaning of some very, very good
words and expressions are wrongly used or
misinterpreted over time. As Buddhists, let us try to
preserve the true meaning of these words so all of
our lives can become more meaningful.
SHINRAN SHONIN’S BIRTHDAY (GOTANE)
SERVICE
Moiliili Hongwanji will observe Shinran
Shonin’s Birthday (Gotan-e) Services on Sunday,
May 17, as follows:
9:00 AM: English Family Service
Speaker: Rev. Jay Okamoto of Waipahu Hongwanji
10:30 AM: Japanese Service
Speaker: Rev. Jay Okamoto.
With our focus this year on Honpa Hongwanji
Mission of Hawaii’s observance of Shinran Shonin’s
750th Memorial, we hope you will all join us to
commemorate the birth of our founder Shinran
Shonin.
REV. MATSUMOTO AWAY MAY 23-30
Rev. Matsumoto, along with BWA Federation
President Donna Higashi, will be in Japan from
May 23 to 30 to attend a planning meeting for the
2011 BWA World Convention. In the event of a
religious emergency, please contact the temple at
949-1659 for assistance. If the office is closed,
please call Rev. Shindo Nishiyama (for religious
emergencies only) at 845-3422 or 754-3737 (cell).
STUDENT AND TEACHER RECOGNITION,
HONOR GRADUATES
On Sunday, June 7, Dharma School students
and teachers and high school graduates will be
recognized at the 9:00 AM Family Service. We
hope everyone will be able to attend the service as
we recognize our students and show our
appreciation to our teachers.
MONTHLY TALK STORY SESSIONS
Talk story sessions with Rev. Eric Matsumoto
are held once a month whenever possible at 10:30
AM following the 9:00 AM Sunday service. The
next session will be on May 3. Please join us and
share your questions and your thoughts as we learn
more about our Jodo Shin teachings.
BON OBSERVANCE
BON DANCE
Please mark your calendars for Moiliili
Hongwanji’s Bon Dance on Friday and Saturday,
July 3 & 4 from 7:30 to 10:30 PM on the grounds
of the Moiliili Community Center.
Practice sessions at MCC 2nd floor: Mondays, June
8 & 15, 7:00 to 9:00 PM . You are welcome to join
the members of the Yamada Dance Group to
practice the dances.
Practice sessions around yagura at MCC: Monday
and Tuesday, June 29 and 30, 7:30 to 9:00 PM
(continued on page 3)
MONTHLY MOVIE NIGHT
The movie night for May will be on
Wednesday, May 27, at 7:00 PM featuring Galaxy
Quest. Everyone is invited and there is no charge.
The White Way is the newsletter of the Moiliili Hongwanji
Mission, 902 University Ave., Honolulu, HI 96826. It is printed
seven times a year in January, March, May, June, August,
October and December.
THE WHITE WAY
2
MAY 2009
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Aloha members, friends and supporters of
Moiliili Hongwanji. Recently, due to many concerns
voiced by our members and the down turn in the
economy, the Board of Directors has been taking a
hard look at the financial stability of our temple.
Whereas it is forecasted that most non-profit
organizations will experience a shortfall in funds and
donations this year due to tightening budgets and
investment income shortfalls, our temple and the
other organizations of the Honpa Hongwanji
Mission of Hawaii need to heed the warning. March
2009 seems to have been the bottom of the slump
and we are quickly looking at positive indicators that
the economy is starting to get back on its feet. The
Finance Committee has evaluated our investments
and feels assured that we have been and are aligned
to deal with the current market conditions in the
wisest manner. It is noted that our investments are
balanced in a way that would allow us to gain back
the losses we encountered in the past year in a timely
manner consistent with the market’s and economy’s
rise.
This year is also defined as a time filled with
many auspicious events in our Hongwanji
organization. The 750th/120th Combined anniversary
celebration events in September and Project Dana’s
20th Anniversary in October are two that really stand
out for us at Moiliili. Auspicious in a way that each
of the events is unrepeatable and will be recorded in
the rich history of our organization. As busy and as
limited as we are in our resources, I would like to
encourage all of our members to participate in one or
more of the events. Please support and get involved
with your Jodo Shinshu Faith for the good of our
past, present and future members, family and
friends.
Your continued Aloha and support is greatly
appreciated. May the infinite light and compassion
of Amida Buddha guide all of our actions and may
we all attain perfect peace. Namo Amida Butsu.
In Gassho,
Bert Ogasawara, President
LOOKING AHEAD (cont. from page 2)
Please Kokua: Please mark your
calendars and come to help at the
Bon Dance.
Yagura setup at MCC: Sunday,
June 28, 7:00 AM
BBQ stringing: Thursday, July 2, 6:00 PM
Construction of the concession and choba at MCC:
Friday, July 3, 12:00 PM.
Bon Dance Help: July 3 and 4: We’ll need lots of
kokua with setup, kitchen, concession, parking,
choba, cleanup, etc., etc. Please watch for more
information—we really need your helping hand.
Mahalo!!
BON MAIRI WEEK: Our joint Bon services for
families will be held from Wednesday to Friday,
July 8 to 10, at 7:30 PM and Saturday, July 11, at
10:00 AM. Everyone is invited to participate in
these services. (Please note that this year the
Saturday service will be held in the morning instead
of the afternoon. We hope this is a more convenient
time.)
HATSUBON SERVICE: The joint Hatsubon
service for families observing the first bon since the
passing of a loved one will be held on Saturday,
July 11, at 7:30 PM. Everyone is welcome.
MAJOR BON SERVICE: Rev. Tatsuo Muneto
will be the speaker at our major Bon Service on
Sunday, July 12, at our 9:00 AM Family English
Service and 10:30 AM Japanese Service.
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DEEPEST SYMPATHY
Moiliili Hongwanji Mission extends its deepest
sympathy and condolences to the families of the
following who have recently passed away:
Theodore “Ted” Chernin, 92, on March 8
Wayne Takeshi Fujii, 61, on March 10
Toshio Togashi, 83, on March 17
Tayeko Kayahara, 85, on March 17
Betty Chieko Uchino, 69, on April 1
Margaret Yaeko Miura, 90, on April 20
WITH SYMPATHY—REV. THOM NAKANISHI
Rev. Thom Nakanishi, former Bishop of the
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii and of South
America passed away on April 9 at the age of 75.
Services were held on April 16 at Hawaii Betsuin.
Our deepest condolences are extended to his family.
May the Onembutsu provide solace to family
members and friends during this time of sorrow.
THE WHITE WAY
3
MAY 2009
there were 6 groups as finalists nominated for this
award. From this group of 6 statewide
organizations, Project Dana was selected as the
top organization. As the description in the
nomination application stated “… volunteers give
Hawaii hope for the future. The Governor’s
Volunteer Recognition Award recognizes
dedication, commitment, and determination in
promoting and supporting volunteerism.”
We extend our warmest mahalo to each and
every one of you as volunteers who selflessly
give of your time and energy to help the frail
elders and disabled persons.
This award
recognizes YOU and your individual efforts.
Thank you very much!
LET’S SAVE THIS DATE – October 24, 2009
Hu A’e Ke Aloha-“Let Your Heart Overflow
in the Rainbow of Selfless Giving” is the theme
for Project Dana’s 20th anniversary celebration
on October 24, 2009. The celebration will be
held at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel, Lanai
Ballroom, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM with an
opening processional and interfaith service
beginning at 9:30. Dr. Jeannette Takamura,
Dean and Professor of Gerontology and Social
Policy, School of Social Work at Columbia
University will be the special keynote speaker.
She is very well known as a motivational and
inspirational speaker, both nationally and
internationally.
Dr. Takamura has been a
supporter of Project Dana since it began in 1989.
A delicious lunch with a program of
entertainment honoring our volunteers will start
at 12:00 noon.
An open invitation is extended to all Project
Dana volunteers of Moiliili Hongwanji for your
presence at this auspicious celebration of 20
years of volunteer caregiving. Plans have been in
the making for two years by the Advisory
Council with Cynthia Ogasawara and Blayne
Higa as co-chairs. Watch for upcoming notices in
the White Way and your invitation in the mail
with a request to RSVP
Please mark your calendar to be at the
Sheraton Waikiki Hotel on Saturday, October 24,
2009.
WALK WISE HAWAII
Hawaii has experienced many
pedestrian accidents in recent
years. The following are rules
(courtesy of the State of Hawaii and Dept. of
Transportation) to walk smart and safely:
 Cross the street only at the corner or at a
crosswalk. While crossing, keep to the right
of the crosswalk.
 When crossing at a lighted intersection be
sure to use the pedestrian signal button and
wait for the walk light indicator.
 Be sure to look left-right-left before crossing
and continue to look while crossing. Always
walk across the street, never run.
 Walk on the sidewalk if there is one; if there
is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of the
roadway facing traffic.
 Wear bright or light colored clothing when
out walking or jogging. Wear retro-reflective
materials at night.
 Watch for cars backing out of driveways;
drivers don’t always see you.
 Stand on the side of the road while waiting for
the bus. Always stand at least 10 feet away
from where the bus will stop.
Teach these rules to your family and friends.
Remember WALK WISE HAWAII
A SPECIAL RECOGNITION
On March 21, Project Dana was selected as
the outstanding recipient of the 2008 Governor’s
Volunteer Recognition Award (Organization
category) held at the Ala Moana Hotel. This
award, sponsored by Gov. Lingle and the Hawaii
Commission for National and Community
Service, honors extraordinary efforts by
individuals, organizations, and businesses to
effect real change in the communities through
volunteer services. In the organization category,
THE WHITE WAY
4
MAY 2009
Membership, please contact the temple office at 9491659.
NEMBUTSU SEMINAR 2009
“The Heart and Essence of Shinran Shonin: A
Teaching for Today’s World”
Speaker: Dr. Alfred Bloom
Saturday, June 6, 2009, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
at the Buddhist Study Center.
Registration required ($15) by May 25. Forms
available at the temple office or call Rev. Nishiyama
at 845-3422.
INTRODUCING YUKA ISHIDA
A warm welcome is extended to Mrs. Yuka
Ishida who joined the temple staff as the office
assistant on February 1. Yuka moved to Hawaii from
Miyazaki, Japan with her husband and son in July
2006. Her son Takumi, who is 3 years old, attends
our Preschool and Dharma School. Yuka joins
Office Manager Anne Kawabata in keeping our
temple running smoothly! Welcome Yuka!
BSC SUMMER SESSION
The 2009 Buddhist Study Center
Summer Session entitled
“Inconceivable Life: Buddhist Compassion in the
Ocean of Light” will be held from June 15 to June
26, weekdays, from 6:30 to 9:00 PM at the
Buddhist Study Center. The lecturer will be Dr.
Mark Unno, Associate Professor of East Asian
Buddhism at the University of Oregon. The
registration fee of $40 ($20 for students) is due by
June 1. Individual sessions are $10 per day ($5 for
students) payable that day. Registration forms are
available at the temple office or call BSC 973-6555.
HEADQUARTERS
NEWS
Bishop’s Appointments
Sanmu (Bishop’s Advisory Board): Rev. Ryoso
Toshima (Sanmu-cho), Rev. Tatsuo Muneto, Rev.
Toyokazu Hagio, Rev. Eric Matsumoto.
Kanji (District Chairman): Rev. Shindo Nishiyama
(Honolulu), Rev. Kevin Kuniyuki (Oahu), Rev.
Kosho Yagi (Kauai), Rev. Daien Soga (Maui),
Rev. Shoji Matsumoto (Hawaii)
BWA Executive Director: Rev. Eric Matsumoto
BCA Ministers’ Seminar: Rev. Shoji Matsumoto,
Rev. Earl Ikeda
Honzan Seminar in November:
Rev. Eric
Matsumoto, Rev. Kevin Kuniyuki
YBICSE: Rev. Shindo Nishiyama and Mrs. Lois
Toyama (Jikoen)
Condolence
Bishop Kenshi Miyazaki, Chairman of the Board of
Governors, Honzan, Kyoto, Japan, passed away on
March 28.
Mr. Tokuichi Miura of Waipahu Hongwanji passed
away on March 15. Ingo, MYO-RYO-IN.
Personnel
Rev. Tomo Hojo, a new minister of the Honpa
Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, arrived in Hawaii on
April 29. He is from Myo-do-ji Temple, Wakayama,
Japan, and is 23 years old. He will have orientation
at Headquarters and Hawaii Betsuin under the
supervision of Rev. Takata.
Honan International Center Homepage
Please visit the Honzan International Center
homepage http://international.hongwanji.or.jp/. Let
Dianne Sumida, HQ Secretary, know at
[email protected] if you have any suggestions.
Temples are invited to submit items for posting.
WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS
Welcome to the following who have joined our
Sustaining (Gojikai) Membership:
Mr. Corey Fujii
Mrs. Yuka Ishida
Ms. Irene Takemoto
Ms. Patricia Shigeno
We hope you will join us often at the temple and we
express our deep appreciation for your membership
pledge.
SUSTAINING (GOJIKAI) MEMBERSHIP DUES
Thank you to Sustaining Members for sending
in your membership dues for 2009. Your generous
support is most deeply appreciated! The Sustaining
Members constitute the official membership of our
temple. They may vote at the Annual Membership
meeting and may serve on the temple Board of
Directors. Members also have privileges such as
use of the columbarium and other considerations.
The minimum dues are $75 per year for individual
members and $150 per year for family members of
husband and wife. Those who are 75 years of age or
older and have paid dues for 5 years or more, may
make a pledge in an amount of their choosing. If
you have any questions or if you would like more
information about our temple Sustaining
THE WHITE WAY
5
MAY 2009
COMMEMORATION EVENTS
In September 2009, let’s all participate in the
750th Shinran Shonin Memorial Commemoration
and Hawaii Kyodan 120th Anniversary with
profound gratitude: “Embraced by the Vow—In
Peace and Tranquility” [Advanced registration is
required and still being accepted for the Ohana
Conference & Banquet, Commemoration Service,
and Confirmation Rites. Please call temple office for
information.]
Annon Café at Tsukiji Restaurant (Open to
public): Sept. 4 – 17 (following special opening on
Sept. 3) 11 AM-4 PM , featuring Buddhist cuisine,
culture and activities.
Peace Gathering at Foster Garden (Open to
public): Friday, Sept. 4, 4-6 PM, Entertainment and
fellowship gathering with the presence of Gomonshu
and Lady Ohtani.
Ohana Conference at Hilton Hawaiian Village:
Saturday, Sept. 5, 9 AM-3:30 PM; $100 including
banquet ($50 for children).
Commemoration Banquet at Hilton Hawaiian
Village: Saturday, Sept. 5, 5-9 PM, $100 if not
attending conference ($50 for children).
Commemoration Service at Hilton Hawaiian
Village: Sunday, Sept. 6,
9 AM, Advanced
registration
Confirmation Rites: Statewide—Sunday, Sept. 6, 2
PM at Hawaii Betsuin; Hawaii (Island) District—
Monday, Sept. 7, 10 AM at Hilo Betsuin; Maui
District—Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2 PM at Wailuku
Hongwanji; Kauai District—Thursday, Sept. 10, 4:30
PM at Lihue Hongwanji. Registration fee.
Annon Festa: Monday, Sept. 7, Hawaii Betsuin
grounds for visiting delegations from Japan.
COMMEMORATION CONTRIBUTIONS
Hawaii Kyodan received $500 from the
Federation of Jr. YBAs, $1,000 from the State
Ministers’ Association, and $10,000 from the State
Ministers Wives Association.
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii’s 750th
Shinran Shonin Memorial and Hawaii Kyodan’s
120th Anniversary Fundraising Campaign is being
conducted through 2011 for the following purposes:
1. Purchase and renovate the property adjacent to
Hawaii Betsuin referred to as the “Ching
Property” ($3,000,000) by Hawaii Kyodan
2. Contribute to Hawaii Kyodan’s 750th memorial
commemoration and 120 th anniversary
celebration operating costs ($600,000)
3. Subsidize Hawaii Kyodan’s 750th memorial
commemoration donation to Honzan ($400,000)
4. Contribute to the Hawaii Kyodan’s Ministers’
Welfare Fund ($250,000)
5. Contribute to Pacific Buddhist Academy’s
capital campaign for the construction of facilities
toward the development of a school with 240
students ($1,750,000)
Hawaii Kyodan received $1,193,478.66 as of April
6, 2009. The total for both the receipts and pledges
is $1,621,184.98. Thank you very much for your
generous donations.
ANNON CAFÉ LOGO
As a special event of our Double
Commemoration, Hawaii Kyodan will open the
Annon Café at Tsukiji Restaurant in Ala Moana
Shopping Center. The café will consist of 6 areas:
Annon Corner (serving healthy and low calorie foods
and original desserts and drinks), Experience Area
(Yoga, Ukulele, Hula, Calligraphy, Nenju and Lei
Making, etc.), Exhibition Area (introducing
Buddhism, Jodo Shinshu, Shinran Shonin, Pacific
Buddhist Academy, etc.), Dharma Area
(experiencing chanting of sutra, Dharma messages,
etc.), Annon Goods Area (selling original Annon
goods), and Travel Area (introducing travel to India,
China, Japan, Honzan, historical sites of Shinran
Shonin, etc.). The opening event will be held on
September 3, 2009 with Gomonshu and Lady Ohtani
present. Jake Shimabukuro will
have a mini-concert at the café.
Jake will be playing an original
song “Annon.” The Café will
be open to the public from
September 4 to 17 from 11 AM
to 4 PM.
THE WHITE WAY
COMMEMORATION BOOKLET ADS
The cost for a full page is $1,000, a half-page is
$500, and a quarter-page is $250. The committee
will provide a 25% discount for temples or templeaffiliated organizations. Deadline: Closing for Space
& Advertisement Materials: May 31, Contacts:
Layout: [email protected]; Advertisement Ivan
Nakano at [email protected].
DHARMA VIDEOS ON CHANNEL 49
On Saturday evenings at 7:00 PM, please tune
in to Channel 49, Olelo public service television
station, for a Dharma video. During May, Dr. Nobuo
Haneda’s talks at the Higashi Hongwanji Betsuin
will be featured followed by talks by Bishop Imai.
6
MAY 2009
medications. Mayo Clinic newsletter tells us that
individuals from middle age to senior seem to have a
disposition towards forming clots, especially in our
lower legs and pelvis region. Bed rest, long
hospitalization, or post surgery may also influence the
formation of clots.
The bits of clots break off and
travel up the veins to our heart and lungs which can
be life threatening. Some symptoms are swelling in
the ankle area of the affected leg (usually only one leg
is affected) and leg pain which often starts in the calf
which can feel like a cramp with redness or warmth
over the affected area and signs of fever.
So if you are flying or riding a bus or car in a
seated position for a lengthy period, do some foot,
ankle, calf exercises. Stand up and march in place,
stay hydrated, avoid alcohol. If you are high risk,
wear below the knee compression stockings. Loosing
weight if you are obese will also decrease your
risk. Talk to your doctor for advice if you are at risk
for DVT. And, ladies, if you are pregnant, keep in
mind that you need to stand up and move around also.
Now you know to keep moving your precious
body and keep smiling.
Contributed by Helen Hamasu
A BIG HURRAH!
Our own Michiko Motooka of Moiliili
Hongwanji and Project Dana was the recipient of the
Outstanding Female Award at The Mayor’s 43rd
Annual Senior Citizen Recognition Program held on
Thursday, April 2, at the Hawaii Convention Center.
With more than 1,000 people in attendance, it
was an exciting event to see seventy-nine outstanding
senior citizen volunteers from various organizations
being recognized for their generosity of time and
energy to benefit the lives of others.
Michi Motooka was selected by a group of
judges as one of two top awardees (male and female).
Her nomination highlighted the 20 years of
contributions to various activities and programs at
Moiliili Hongwanji and Project Dana. More
specifically Michi was acknowledged for her
contributions with one-on-one at home assistance to
the frail elders, her bilingual capability, creator of
birthday cards for those 77 years and older, PreSchool volunteer as ukulele accompaniment for
weekly services, Maunalani Nursing Home Buddhist
Services, Happy Strummers leader and instructor,
Columbarium “water changer” for the flowers.
In addition, she serves on the Moiliili Hongwanji
Board of Directors, Bereavement Committee, active
with BWA and served as former Sunday School
teacher.
Michi’s selfless actions are cited for her
extraordinary devotion to caring for people, young
and old. She does things quietly and is always soft
spoken, humble and modest and gives from her heart.
She will be honored statewide at Washington
Place by Governor Lingle on May 21 and at the City
Council on May 27. Congratulations, Michi
Motooka!
WHITE WAY RADIO BROADCAST
Please tune in to Radio KZOO (1210AM dial) for
Moiliili Hongwanji's White Way Radio Broadcast
each Saturday from 7:45 – 8:00 AM. Here is the
upcoming schedule with speaker’s name followed by
sponsor’s name:
May 2: Mrs. Juliet Kono Lee (M/M Richard Ando)
May 9: Rev. David Nakamoto (Mrs. Mitsue Yokota)
May 16: Rev. Yukiko Motoyoshi (Mrs. M. Kimiko
Okano)
May 23: Mrs. Irene Nakamoto (Mesdames June
Matsumoto, Jean Sato, and Karen Murakami)
May 30: Rev. Earl Ikeda (Mrs. Misae Takehara)
June 6: Rev. Tatsuo Muneto (M/M Roy Abe)
Mahalo to our speakers, our sponsors and our
volunteer staff for making this broadcast possible. The
date June 27 is still open for sponsorship. If you are
interested, please call the temple office. The cost is
$65.
You’re also invited to tune in to KZOO for the
Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin’s radio programs
on Saturday at 7:30 AM (Japanese) and Sunday at
10:00 AM (English).
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Spring has sprung! Vacation season has also
arrived. The following information on Deep Vein
Thrombosis or DVT comes from the March 2009
issue of the Mayo Clinic Health Letter. Since we are
interested in prevention of illness, “let’s check it out”.
We see commercials about inactivity and being
seated for a long time on an airplane and developing
DVT. Some individuals also have a disposition
towards forming blood clots influenced by certain
THE WHITE WAY
7
MAY 2009
Buddhist Women’s Association
MAHALO for your generous Eshinni Fund
donations. The Eshinni Fund is used to further
youth activities at Moiliili.
NEWS
The altar implements got all shined up for
Spring Ohigan thanks to omigaki helpers: Kathleen
Komo, Karen Murakami, Satsuye Tanaka, Nancy
and Wally Hironaka, Tamayo-san and Caden and
Donna Higashi. Thank you all for giving of
yourselves and your time to help keep the altar
sparkling!
At our February general membership meeting,
the ladies wholeheartedly agreed to support
Hawaii’s 750th Shinran Shonin’s Memorial Service
commemoration and the Pacific Buddhist Academy.
Our BWA donated $1,000 to the 750th
commemoration and $1,000 to PBA. Every donation
helps as we look forward to an exciting Ohana
Conference and the continuing growth of the Pacific
Buddhist Academy.
The after service refreshment hour is something
everyone looks forward to. Thank you to all who
are part of a refreshment team that has provided
delicious snacks for all to enjoy. Your generosity of
time and effort to prepare the refreshments is truly
appreciated by all!
Condolences: Deepest condolences are extended to
Anne Kawabata on the passing of her mother,
Tayeko Kayahara, and to the family of the late
Margaret Miura.
Mark your calendars:
Next Meeting: The next BWA meeting will be on
Sunday, June 7 following the Sunday service.
HUHHBWA Education Workshop and General
Membership Meeting: Saturday, June 13th will be
the Honolulu United BWA’s combined education
workshop and general membership meeting. This
year Kailua Hongwanji’s BWA will be
spearheading the education part of the day with the
focus on “Keeping Up with Today’s World”
featuring a talk on safety presented by the Honolulu
Police Department and an interesting activity on
technology with PBA students. Let’s be sure to
attend and learn something new and enjoy
fellowship with our BWA sisters! M o i l i i l i
is
responsible for the membership portion of the
meeting and we hope to do some fun activities. A
flyer will be coming out soon with more details.
Contributed by Lois Ohta
THE WHITE WAY
HAPPY STRUMMERS NEWS
Ah, Mother’s Day. Honor goes to a Miss Anna
Jarvis of Philadelphia. Her mother died on Sunday,
May 7, 1907. She wanted to dedicate a day for her
mother’s death and also to all mothers. Through her
untiring effort, Philadelphia made it a state holiday
on the second Sunday in May. The Strummers have
been practicing “Mother” to honor Mothers on May
10, Sunday, at the temple.
The three Strummers who have been going to
Maunalani with Rev. Matsumoto will play “Mother”
along with other songs that call for participation by
the residents there.
Contributed by Michiko Motooka
PBA OFFERS WORKSHOPS
Through a partnership with Bank of Hawaii, the
Pacific Buddhist Academy is pleased to provide a
series of two free workshops which will be held at
the Hawaii Betsuin Temple Annex from 11:30 AM
to 12:30 PM on Wednesdays, May 20 and June 17.
Sessions will be facilitated by Stephanie Asato,
Vice President and Senior Trust Officer in BoH’s
Private Client Services Kahala Office.
 “Understanding the Practical Uses and Pitfalls of
Wills, Trusts and Power of Attorney”,
Wednesday, May 20, 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM
 “Selecting a Family Member or Friend as your
Successor Trustee and other pitfalls”,
Wednesday, June 17, 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
To register, please call Liane Viloria at 531-2649 or
email [email protected]
CHOIR NEWS
Moiliili Hongwanji choir
members resumed practice on April 6
following a 4-month break. It was
great to sing together again, and old
favorites still sounded good despite
the long break. Thank you to Edwin Tanaka,
director, and Francis Okano, accompanist, for
making it possible for the choir to continue to learn
and enjoy singing in harmony.
8
MAY 2009
May 2009
2009 Slogan: “Embraced by the Vow:
In Peace and Tranquility”
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Temple……..….949-1659
Pre-School….....946-4416
Project Dana…..945-3736
Thu
Fri
1
2
9:00 AM - 750th -120th
General Steering
Meeting
1:00 PM - 750th -120th
District Coordinators
Meeting
3:00 PM - Sanmu Kanji
Meeting
3
4
5
Boy’s Day
6
7
10:00 AM - Franciscan
Visitation
9:00 AM - English Service
PTA Meeting
10:30 AM - Talk Story
9:15 AM - Preschool Keiki
Service
Graduation Practice
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
9
10 Mother’s Day 11
12
11:30 AM - United Jr. YBA
Meeting
8
13
14
7:30 PM - Temple Board
9:00 AM English
Service
Mother’s Day Brunch
17
18
19
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
9:00 AM - Gotane English
Service
Speaker: Rev. Jay
Okamoto
10:30 AM - Gotane
24
25 Memorial Day 26
20
9:15 AM - Preschool Keiki
Service
27
21
9
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
15
16
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
Preschool Graduation
9:00 AM - Honolulu United
BWA meeting
22
23
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
29
30
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Membership
Committee Mtg.
28
(Holiday)
6:00 PM - Karate
3:00 PM - Ministerial
Training Subcommittee Mtg.
6:00 PM - Karate
319:00 AM - English Svc.
Speaker: Mr. P. Toyama
9 AM - HHDSTA Keiki Day
@HMS
8:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Hawaii Kyodan
Board of Directors
Meeting.
10:15 AM - Maunalani
Visitation
2:00 PM - Minister”s Mtg.
and Study session
9:15 AM - Preschool Keiki
Service
Graduation Rehearsal
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
3:30 PM - Ministerial
Training Committee
Mtg.
6:00 PM - Karate
7:00 PM - Preschool Mtg.
Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
Sat
6:00 PM - Karate
In Appreciation
OHIGAN DONATIONS:
. Ichiro & Jean Fukumoto
. Minako Suehiro
. D. Higashi, Toshimasa Tando
. Haruko Hoashi, Michiko Morikubo, Susan Morishige, Rose &
Gwen Nakamura
.
Richard & Thelma Ando, Michie Hamao, Wallace & Nancy
Hironaka, Tad T. Iimura, Akiko Kie, Karen Kikukawa, P. Komo,
Eugene Makino, June R. Matsumoto, Raymond Mimaki, Robert H.
Mizuno, M. & K. Murakami, Edwin T. Ogasawara, Donald Okano,
Ken Sato, Roy & Nancy Shimamoto, Tatsuki Shiramizu, Tanaka,
Kenji & Nobuko Toyama, George M. Tsugawa, S. Uyeunten,
Katsumi Yamamoto, Mitsue Yokota, J. Watari
.
Yoshiko M. Ebisu, Perry T. Honjo, Edith N. Horii, Shimeji
Kanazawa, O. Kawabata, Isao Kitagawa, Charles Koyanagi, Tasuku
Matsushima, Michiko Motooka, Tsuneo Muramaru, Myrtle Nakasato,
David Nekotani, B. & C. Ogasawara, Saiei Sato, Kiyoshi Shigefuji,
Asako Takane, Satsuye Tanaka, R. Urata, Reiko Yoshioka
. Delma O. Kiyomoto, Natsuko Kunimune, K. Shigemoto, Alice H.
K. Shiroma, Alan Yokota, Gene K. Yokota
. M. Abe, Amy Amazaki, Sumie Hamamoto, Ethel Hasegawa, T. M.
Hasuike, Toshiyuki Hiranaga, Reiko Izumi, Fred H. Kajoika, Larry
Kodama, Kathleen S. Komo, H. Kumagai, Yusei Matsui, Yoshinobu
Matsushima, I. Mikuni, James T. Mimuro, Elaine Miyamoto, Hiroji
Miyazaki, J. Momoki, Adeline Morihara, Doris Muraoka, Shizue
Nagao, Tomie Nakahara, Misae Nakamura, Wendy Nakanishi, N. K.
Nakatsuka, Millie Nishida, Torao Noguchi, Marsha Okada, Kimiko
Okano, P. Okubo, Yaeko Onuma, E. Ryusaki, Mildred Shindo, S. &
E. S. Shintaku, G. & S. Sonoda, Nancy T. Sueyoshi, Harumi Suzuki,
I. Takamura, Jane C. Tamura, Tanaka, Richard K. Teramoto, Isamu
Tsukamoto, Ushio Tsukazaki, Helene Uyemura, Jack Watanabe, H.
Yoshimoto, Bessie M. Yoshimura
. Yukiko Kajiwara, Susumu Kato, Thelma M. Kobayashi, Momoyo
Miyazaki, Masuko Murata, Merwyn & Karen Sumida, Baron C.
Taira, Howard T. Takaki, Shizue Tanaka
TO TEMPLE:
2/21
2/22
2/26
2/26
2/26
2/26
2/27
3/2
3/4
3/4
3/4
3/6
3/10
3/11
3/11
3/14
3/20
3/20
3/22
3/24
3/24
3/27
3/30
3/30
3/30
4/2
4/2
4/4
4/8
4/11
4/11
4/12
4/17
4/17
4/19
4/21
4/21
Ellen Kasai in memory of Larry Yoshitaka Kasai
Karen Kikukawa
Janet Matsumoto
J. Watanabe
Dr. Richard & Thelma Ando
Frances & Jim Kaneta
Barbara Y. Ishida in memory of Oda grandparents, Harry
Yoshio & Hatsuyo
Milton Oshima & Family and Myles Oshima & Family in
memory of Toshi Oshima
Tasuku Matsushima in memory of Goichi Matsushima
Nekotani Family in memory of mother, Yoshi Nekotani
Eugene Makino
Bert S. Maedo in memory of Haruko Maedo
Wallace & Nancy Hironaka in honor of Rose Nakamura
Yatogo
Craig Kinoshita
Barry Maeda in memory of Hideko Maeda
Grace San Juan in memory of Torao Ichikawa
Jeanne Watari
Susan Morishige
Lillian M. Kaneshiro in memory of Akira & Jane Shimada
Elaine F. Ashimine in memory of Akira & Jane Shimada
Wayne & Eileen Uemoto
Stanley H. Shimada
Karen K. Kikukawa
Alice H. K. Shiroma
Chieko Fujitani
Howard Fujitani
Dorothy A. Sorayama in memory of father & mother, Ben
& Fusae Shinohara
Michiko Motooka
I. Yamamoto in memory of parents
Kimura Family in memory of the late Mr. Tadao Kimura
Pamela T. Noguchi for Kaylee Noguchi Initatory Rites
Howard Takata
Takanori Iiyama
Eugene Makino
Robyn Akahoshi in memory of the late Ralph R.
Akahoshi
Tasuku Matsushima in memory of Waichi Kimura
BUDDHA DAY DONATIONS :
. Ernest M. Oshiro
. Sharon Katada, Miles Nakamura, Lawrence Sadanaga
. Roy M. Sesoko, Edward Tagawa
. Richard & Thelma Ando, Michie Hamao, Blayne Higa, Wallace &
Nancy Hironaka, Kenney Kajioka, Karen Kikukawa, Eugene Makino,
Raymond I. Mimaki, Edwin T. Ogasawara, Roy & Nancy
Shimamoto, Tatsuki Shiramizu, Kenji & Nobuko Toyama, Helene
Uyemura
. Donna Higashi, Edith Horii, Masao Kajioka, O. Kawabata, K. M.
Koseki, Myrtle Nakasato, David Nekotani, Saiei Sato, Minako
Suehiro, Asako Takane, S. Tanaka, Milton T. Yamasaki, M. Yokota,
Reiko Yoshioka
. Natsuko Kunimune, Susan Morishige, I. Shigemoto, Richard K.
Teramoto
. M. Abe, Laura Aoki, Chiyono Ebisu, Walter Ebisu, Ethel
Hasegawa, T. M. Hasuike, Toshiyuki Hiranaga, Reiko Izumi, Fred
Kajoika, Robert T. & Hatsue S. Kinoshita, Larry Kodama, Kathleen
S. Komo, Yusei Matsui, Yoshinobu Matsushima, I. Mikuni, James T.
Mimuro, Elaine Miyamoto, Hiroji Miyazaki, Michi Motooka, Tomie
Nakahara, Rose Nakamura, Wendy Nakanishi, N. K. Nakatsuka,
Millie Nishida, Lois Ohta, Marsha Okada, Kimiko Okano, Philip
Okubo, Yaeko Onuma, Alice H. K. Shiroma, G. Sonoda, Itsuko
Takamura, Takashi Tanaka, Toshimasa Tando, Isamu Tsukamoto,
Ushio Tsukazaki, R. Urata, Gene K. Yokota, Helen Yoshimoto
.
George Furukawa, Yukiko Kajiwara, Thelma M. Kobayashi,
Susumu Kato, Delma O. Kiyomoto, Masuko Murata, Shizue Nagao,
S. & E. S. Shintaku, Merwyn & Karen Sumida, Baron C. Taira
TO NOKOTSUDO:
2/27 Grace M. Watanabe in memory of Tadaichi &
Haruyo Okimoto Family
3/26 Anonymous
4/27 Helen Y. Hamasu in memory of George M. Hamasu
TO BUDDHIST WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION:
4/8 Michiko Motooka
TO PROJECT DANA:
Kuakini Auxiliary, Pfizer Matching gift
C. Bennett, M. Domingo, E. Hanaumi, A. Isosaki, M. Kanda, D.
Kido, E. Kuyeoka, M. Motooka, F. Naliielua, F. Nishita, E.
Ogasawara, M. Ohye in honor of Maizy Howell and Rose
Nakamura, M. Pang, N. Sheldan, S. Shields, A. Shiroma, P.
Smith, A. Toshima
20th Anniversary at Project Dana, Moiliili Hongwanji
E. Shintaku
20th Anniversary (Oct. 24, 2009)
Bank of Hawaii, Hawaii Betsuin, Jikoen Hongwanji, Moiliili
Hongwanji
R. Awakuni in memory of Clara Awakuni, W. & N. Hironaka
in honor of Rose Nakamura, E. & Y. Nakagawa, G. & R.
Tokuoka
THE WHITE WAY
1
MAY 2009
children on her ukulele with the singing of Buddha
Loves You. In addition, the entire congregation, led
by the children, sang Happy Birthday to the Baby
Buddha complete with cake and candles. It was
wonderful to hear so many young voices at the
service! The temple was decorated with
approximately 100 pictures of the Baby Buddha
colored by the Preschool children earlier in the week.
Following the service, everyone enjoyed a delicious
“potluck” of refreshments brought by members, and
the children enjoyed a “Clifford the Big Red Dog”
bouncy set up in the temple parking lot. The children
and some adults also enjoyed the crafts and other
activities provided by the Dharma School PTA such
as “Baby Buddha” body stickers, folding paper
napkins into colorful lotus blossoms, and coloring
pictures of the Baby Buddha. A Dharma “Talk Story”
session was held for adults too.
To all those who helped and attended “Thank you
very much” for your contributions and participation in
the joyous celebration of one of the most important
religious observances of the Buddhist Tradition!
JR. YBA NEWS
YESS Camp XXVI was held at Camp Kokokahi
this year on March 23-25, 2009. This year’s co-chairs
were Lynn Nakagawa and Wayde Toyama. The
keynote speaker was Rev. Gene Sekiya from Japan.
His Dharma messages were very deep and
meaningful. The YESS Camp theme was “Learn from
YESSterday… Live for Today”. One of the most fun
activities was the relay and field games. The dance
and tug a war (campers vs staff) were also highlights
of camp. I would like to thank the BWA Eshinni
Fund for supporting the Jr. YBA all these years.
On a side note, this year the 52nd Jr. YBA State
Convention will be held on Kauai at Aston Kauai
Beach @ Makaiwa, from June 26-28, 2009. This
year’s theme is “Buddha Loves Green, “The future of
the world is in our hands”. This convention will be
an educational as well as a meaningful one.
Contributed by Ryne M.
This year’s YESS Camp is probably the most
memorable one I have been to. I have made many
new friends and have learned many new things. Rev.
Sekiya’s talks had us think about what each of us is
seeking on our own. He also had us think about
people we look up to. I think one of the most
important things he talked about was how past events
had come together to create the present. I have had so
much fun going to camp every year. Thank you very
much to the BWA Eshinni Fund for sponsoring us.
Camp is always one of the most enjoyable times of
the year and I hope to one day be a counselor or staff
for it.
Contributed by Nikiya T.
This school year has really flown by with
Graduation just around the corner. The month of
April has proven to be a very busy one.
On April 6, the children excitedly dyed their
Easter eggs. They proudly took them home in their
school-made baskets. Picture taking for the Graduates
followed on April 7.
The children observed Hanamatsuri as part of our
temple service on April 8. They were so thrilled to
pour sweet tea over baby Buddha. After the service,
Rev. Eric gave the children a picture of baby Buddha
to color, which he then displayed in the temple.
Keiki Gold screening for vision and hearing was
also on April 8 (Wednesday) and continued for the
next two Wednesdays. Thirdly on this same day, the
children participated in their class egg hunt on the
school grounds and in the classroom. On April 9, the
Preschool closed for Buddha Day and Good Friday on
April 10.
The zoo excursion on April 17 was next on the
agenda with the children eager to see their animal
friends, especially the three tiger cubs.
Lastly the highlight for the month was the Spring
Program on April 24. All classes performed two
songs much to the delight of their parents and
grandparents.
Contributed by Linda Nagata
DHARMA SCHOOL NEWS
Moiliili Hongwanji’s Buddha Day Service on
April 12th was an event-filled day celebrating the birth
of Prince Siddhartha Gautama. The day began with
the traditional Tea Pouring Ceremony reenacting the
joyous birth scene of the Baby Buddha in Lumbini
Garden. The Flower Shrine was surrounded by dozens
of gladiolus in hues of red, orange, pink, green, white
and many other flowers and greenery brought by
members. Thank you to those who brought flowers.
An Initiatory Rites was held to formally introduce our
youngest followers, including Preschool students, to
the Three Treasures. Mrs. Michiko Motooka, who was
recently selected as the Outstanding Female Senior
Volunteer for 2009 for Oahu Island from among 79
nominees, was recognized, and she accompanied the
THE WHITE WAY
11
MAY 2009
to young people who have been raised completely
within western culture and who are losing touch
with the cultural and spiritual traditions in which
Jodo Shinshu developed in Hawai‘i.
Finding New Words
for Young Listeners
Excerpts from an Ohigan
Dharma Message
Specifically, I recommended that the
Hawai‘i Kyodan call together ministers, scholars,
lay leaders and educators with strong Englishspeaking backgrounds from throughout the world
who are interested in personalizing the spiritual
dimensions of Jodo Shinshu for those young people
who live in English-speaking cultures.
The following are excerpts from a Dharma message
PBA Head of School Pieper Toyama delivered at
Lihue Hongwanji Mission on the occasion of Spring
Ohigan. In this part of his message, Mr. Toyama
addresses what he has identified as a need for new
translations of the Jodo Shinshu teachings that
resonate with young people in the West.
The work of these participants will be to
develop the language that will make the most
fundamental concepts of Jodo Shinshu immediate
and personally powerful for young listeners by
insuring that the language is sensitive and
responsive to their culture and experiences.
As we hear and read explanations of Jodo
Shinshu teachings, we find examples of key terms
that are so general that they have no meaning for our
students at PBA or that are alien to their
fundamental and deeply embedded western values.
These terms open the door for confusion and
misunderstanding.
If you are interested in contributing to this
project to achieve balance and harmony between the
teachings and young listeners, please contact me at
[email protected]
In addition, we encounter words that are
scholarly and intellectual which neither touch
students in personal ways nor help them relate the
teachings to what is happening in their lives from
day to day. For example, we often use the words
“interdependence” and “interconnected” but much
less often do we use the word “love” and “joy”
when we teach young people. And yet teenagers
today relate immediately and powerfully to the
words “joy” and “love.” This is not balance.
Spreading Peace, Sharing Buddhism
PBA 3rd Annual Taiko Festival
On Sunday, March 8, 2009, the students of
the Pacific Buddhist Academy presented the 3rd
Annual Taiko & Karaoke Festival, The Path to
Peace, to a full house of nearly 600 people.
What started off three years ago as a
showcase for students has evolved into a wellattended, highly regarded annual concert. This year,
the senior performance ensemble debuted a original
collaborative composition, Buddha's Call for Peace
and the full PBA student body performed a spirited
version of the traditional Japanese fishing work
song, Soran Bushi.
I would guess that many of the words and
language we use to explain Jodo Shinshu today were
from translations from Japanese made one to two
generations ago. They made sense to those
generations because of the shared cultural traditions
and experiences. For them, there was harmony
between the words and their experiences.
The theme for this festival, The Path to
Peace, refers to “the happiness and delight in life
that come from an appreciation of each moment,”
said Toyofuku Sensei. It is a path that is both
discovered and expressed by PBA students as they
play the taiko.
However, when we look at the students we
now teach at PBA and the distance between their
experiences and those of our generation, we need to
reestablish balance and harmony between the
language of Jodo Shinshu teachings and the
experiences and culture of young people.
To see photos from the concert, to read an
Advertiser article, and to see a 5-minute clip from
the KHON2 Morning News with Manolo Morales,
please go to: http://
www.pacificbuddhistacademy.org/news/news.htm
Based on my experiences as head of PBA, I
have recommended to the Hawai‘i Kyodan Board
that our Kyodan spearhead the development of
translations of the teachings so that they are clearer
THE WHITE WAY
12
MAY 2009
PBA Outreach Classes
PBA is happy to offer the first
in a series of enrichment
classes for PBA families,
Honpa Hongwanji temple
members, and the interested public.
Drawing I and Drawing II
Instructor: Wayne Takazono, professional artist
and PBA Art Teacher
These 12 week long classes will meet once a week
for two hours. Youth from 14 to 18 years and
adults of all ages are welcome to enroll. Enrollment
will be capped at 12 students.
Drawing I
Thursdays, starting June 18th
6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in PBA classroom UC102
In Drawing I, students will do exercises designed to
engage the right hemisphere of the brain. The
exercises will include drawing vases, drawing
pictures viewed upside down, and doing blind and
modified contour drawings. Students will learn the
concept of the picture plane, the general guidelines
for drawing the human head, to see negative shapes,
and to use the pencil as a tool to see proportion and
perspective. No prior drawing experience is
required for Drawing I.
Class Fee: $325.00
Supply List/Fee TBA, i.e. graphite and paper
Drawing II
Tuesdays, starting June 16th
6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in PBA classroom UC102
In Drawing II, students will master value (in art,
value refers to light and dark) through the
exploration of different mediums such as charcoals,
pens, ink washes, white pencils, and drawing with
the eraser. Students will also learn about color by
using pastels as the medium.
Class Fee: $325.00
Supply List/Fee TBA, i.e. paper, charcoal, pens, and
pastels
For more information or to request a registration form, call
Michelle Ching at 532-2649.
Rev. Koho Takata
Mrs. Juliet Kono Lee
Children’s Initiatory Rites participants and their families: Front
Takumi, Kyla, Tyler. Back: Sara, Cristi, Aaron, and Kaylee.
YESS CAMP XXVI at Camp Kokokahi
Happy Birthday Buddha!
Congratulation to Mrs. Motooka - at Mayor’s 43rd Annual Senior
Citizen Recognition Program.
Rev. Matsumoto congratulates Mrs. Motooka
on receiving the Outstanding Female Award.
THE WHITE WAY
Mrs. Linda Nagata’s Class at Buddha Keiki Service.
Congratulation! Harumi and
Toshitaka Iiyama from
Kagoshima, Japan.
2
Best wishes to
Natalie and John Hayashibara
Yuka Ishida, our new
office assistant
MAY 2009
どのように使われていますか？
もったい
昔から使われてきた仏教と関係をもつと思
われるいくつかの言葉をご紹介したいと思
います。あいにく、これらの単語がもつ深
い意味は、現在忘れられて使われていま
す。今日、改めて味わわせていただきま
しょう。
まず、「もったいない」という言葉は、
本来存在するものすべての実の姿を示す言
葉です。仏教の教え、仏様の智慧によりま
すと、一切に固定された変わらない性質は
ないのです。すべてが因縁によって現れま
すし、その因縁がなくなると消えていきま
す。この点からすればすべてが平等です。
もったい
「勿体ない」または「物体ない」の意味に
ついては一説によりますと、「勿」と書く
場合「勿＝無い」という意味で、〝すべて
に体がありません〟との意味です。それに
重ねて「ない」を最後につけたものである
といいます。
めているのです。
この本質「もったいない」に気づかないま
ま生きる事自体が、真の意味で『もったい
ない』のです。
たい
「諦（あき）らめる」の諦（たい）の字は
〝明らかにする〟という意味です。さら
に、国字として〝断念する〟という意味が
あります。思いますに、この「諦める」と
いう言葉は、はじめから無力で何もしない
ということを意味するのではなく、本当の
まことに目覚め、それに順ずるにふさわし
い行動をする、という事を意味するものだ
と思います。仏教では「諦」という字は、
「真実、悟り」を表す言葉の一つです。他
の表現としては、「仕方が無い」というの
がありますが、ただどうしょううもない、
という敗北的な態度ではなしに、まことの
事情をよく分かった上で、はじめて使うべ
き言葉ではないでしょうか。
だいじょうぶ
次に「大丈夫」という言葉は涅槃経に由
来します。仏様または菩薩を示す言葉で
す。「大丈夫」とは、〝偉大なる人〟とい
う意味です。
最後に「往生」という言葉ですが、「往
生」とは、単なる人が亡くなるという意味
ではありません。また、難しい状況に陥る
時に使う表現でもありません。確かに、自
分の力でお浄土に至ろうとするならば大変
なことです。たくさんの功徳を積まなけれ
ばなりません。しかし、浄土真宗のみ教え
では、往生は阿弥陀様のご本願の力に乗じ
て、生死の難度海を渡らせていただきます
ので、往き易いと説きます。特に、浄土真
宗の場合は「往生」は非常にありがたいお
言葉です。私たちが阿弥陀様のご本願を信
じて、如来様の素晴らしい清らかな悟りの
世界に生まれることを意味するお言葉で
す。私たちが、仏の国であるお浄土に生ま
れて苦悩から離れ、まことのしあわせを
得、最高の智慧と慈悲と一つなることが
「往生浄土」という言葉がもつ意味です。
ごんぎょう
=
わ
にほんごらいはい
い ぱ
ふ ほんがんじ
みなさま
まい
合掌
このように、多くのありがたい言葉が、次
第に本来の意味を失われて、違ったように
使われるようになりました。しかし、仏教
徒として、これらの言葉がもつ深い意味を
忘れないで、ありがたく使わせていただき
ましょう。
し
ごうたんえ
お知らせ
しゅうそしんらんしょうにん
あ
宗 祖 親 鸞 聖 人 の降誕会が 勤 行 されます
あんないもう
ことをご案内申し上げます。
ご ぜ ん く じ
こうし
ま
もう
あ
ねが
いた
宜しくお願い致します。
よろ
りを 心 よりお待ち申し上げます。
こころ
駐在開教使岡本信悟先生です。皆様のお参
ちゅうざいかいきょうしおかもとしんごせんせい
両 法 要 のご講師は、ワイパフ本願寺の
りょうほうよう
午前十時半から日本語礼拝
ごぜんじゅうじはん
時間 午前九時から英語家族礼拝
えいごかぞくらいはい
日付 五月十七日（日曜日）
ごがつじゅうしちにち
=
もの
もう一説の「物」と書く場合〝すべての物
たい
に体がない〟という意味です。この場合、
すべてのものは独立した存在がなく、互い
に関係し合って存在するのです。それゆえ
に、他がありがたいし、他に責任があるの
ですから、積極的に生きましょう、とすす
MAY 2009
3
THE WHITE WAY
２００９年５月号
白道
第４６６号