HIST 87 Lecture Notes - Lecture 7: Heian Period, Genshin, Emperor Go-Shirakawa
Document Summary
Interesting use of religious tolerance as opposed to many other countries. Different religious beliefs all placed into a melting pot. Lower ranks commend their land to higher classes. Realize that the people look for their own good before the emperor"s by saving money. Imperial family loses their power to the landowners, coincidentally the fujiwaras. Symbolizes the collapse of the imperial family. Gave commoners an incentive, rather than blatantly paying the government. Stems from unrest in the heian era. Gave a reason for people to do good to keep as much balance in their lives as possible. Aristocrats paid most attention to this because they have committed the most sins. They are also the most educated and have access to temples, monasteries, and monks for guidance. Genshin wrote a book about each sect of hell. He was able to visually meditate and see the hells in his head. Chomei went out of the city and built his own hut.
