Shōkū’s 證空 (1177–1247) interpretation of the Kezenjo 化前序 (Preface to the commentary on the Guan Wuliangshou jing 観無量寿経 is one of the most important doctrines in the Seizan 西山 branch of the Jōdo School. Most of the previous studies show that the Kezenjo derived from Tendai doctrine. In this paper, I reexamine the background of the Kezenjo, and its influence on the Seizan branch, focusing on his direct disciples.
