Shinran and the Use of the siliu pianliti 四六駢儷体 （Four and Six Character Line Chinese Prose Style）

Abstract

This paper examines Shinran’s use of the siliu pianliti 四六駢儷体, four and six character line prose style of Chinese literature, to demonstrate the significance and background of his adoption of this style of writing, thereby challenging previous scholarly assumptions about its origins and influences. Compared to the writings of his contemporaries who also used this literary style, such as Seikaku 聖覚 and Shinzui 信瑞, Shinran’s usage shows some commonalities but also shows his unique adaptation of this literary style. Shinran’s use of the siliu pianliti in the Kyōgyōshinshō also provides a clue for understanding who his intended readers were, and the purpose of his writings.