This course will introduce you to the main sects of Buddhism in Japan, introduce the Buddhist worldview and help you start to understand how Buddhism impacted Japanese culture throughout history and continues to today.
In this course, we will:
Learn about the sects of Buddhism followed in Japan and their history of introduction to the nation
Identify some of the expressions/traditions of Buddhism which are followed in Japan (current influences of Buddhism)
Explore contrasts and comparisons between elements of Buddhism and Christian faith
Next course: April 8-May 17, 2024
We need to lay a little foundational understanding about Buddhism before beginning this course.
The short, free, pre-course is to be completed before we officially begin the course and first lessons.
Additional resources are needed for this course:
Mariana Nesbitt's book Jesus for Japan: Bridging the Cultural Gap to Christianity
Ebook ($6.49) or Paperback ($20.99) at Amazon
Japan: An Attempt at Interpretation, Lafcadio Hearn
Ebook (FREE) or Paperback ($6.52) at Amazon
Operation Japan Prayer Guide 5th Edition 2019 - PDF ($5)
Downloadable through the RJC Academy
A more detailed, in-depth, web version is available for a $5 purchase from
Don Wright
How does Buddhism play out in popular culture?
Hooray! You have made it to the end of this Understanding Buddhism course! This final section aims to give you some thoughts and suggestions on where to go in furthering your learning and engagement in reaching the Japanese with the love of Jesus Christ!