The Study Abroad of Nichiren Sect Monk in Modern Era

Abstract

The Nichiren sect’s first priest to study abroad was Matsuki Bunkyō 松木文恭, a pupil of Arai Nissatsu 新居日薩. Arai promoted the modernization of Nichiren Buddhism, and Matsuki studied English in Shanghai in 1886, and later went to the U.S. In those days, Arai engaged in educational reform of the Nichiren sect and organized subjects such as English and mathematics in the educational structure of Nichiren Buddhism, aiming at educational enrichment. Moreover, he had his pupils study not only at the educational facilities of the Nichiren sect but also at Keiō Gijuku 慶応義塾. Arai recognized the educational importance of the times, and we may conclude that he had Matsuki study abroad so that his pupil could acquire Western knowledge, and pursue language study. This paper considers the conduct of Matsuki and the regulations for students from the Nichiren sect studying abroad.