Naomi Seijo Nakano is our reverend.
She offers Japanese Buddhist classes at the Central Coast Buddhist Church in San Luis Obispo.
Minister’s Message -July 2026 This page is updated every month.
Keep up to date with the previous minister’s message, on our blog.
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Minister’s Message
Kouin ya no gotoshi
(translation: Time flies like an arrow)
Meaning: Life is fleeting, making our memories
And time with loved ones precious
Each year around May through July, many Buddhist temple/churches observe
a special service called Hatsubon. ‘Hatsu” means first and symbolizes the first
Obon festival since the passing of the loved one(s) from this earthly realm.
In other Buddhist sects, it is believed that the “spirit” of the deceased remains
in a state of “limbo” for 49 days before becoming a Buddha. It is a very important
time, for the loved one’s “spirit” has returned home for the first time within a year.
Jodo Shinshu still observes the 49-day service in deepening our connection to
the departed. It is our way of deepening the understanding of the teachings and
bringing the family together in healing.
Hatsubon for other Buddhist sects would customarily decorate the home with
unpatterned while lanterns (shiro-chochin). They believe that these lanterns are
landmarks, so that the “spirit” of the departed loved ones can return without
getting lost. A “spirit altar” (shoryo-dana) is erected as a place for the ancestors
to stay. Some sects would also carve a cucumber into a horse, so that the
ancestor(s) can return home quicker. They would carve an eggplant into a cow,
to send the “spirit” back slowly. laidened with offerings.
In addition to those customs, there are five types of offering. These five
offerings are meant to provide hospitality to the “spirit” who has return
ed and to convey a feeling of gratitude. One such offering is incense. Its scent p
urifies the body and cleanses the space. There is the offering of candlelight for
the purpose of illuminating the darkness of worldly desires and symbolizing the
light of the Buddha’s wisdom. Another offer is flowers. It represents beauty and
impermanence. Lastly there is the offering of water or the first tea of the day. This
is offered to quench the deceased’s thirst. It is also a symbol of a pure,
unblemished heart.
However, in Jodo Shinshu, it is not necessary for this offering of water. In the
sutra, it is written that the Pure Land is abundant with water and thirst is always
satisfied. The last offer is food. Because Buddhism frowns upon the taking of life,
a “gift” of freshly cooked rice or vegetarian cuisine is offered.
These rituals/practices/customs are still utilized, sometimes with crossovers
into Jodo Shinshu. Yet, it is stated in the Three Pure Land Sutras that upon
death, the deceased immediately becomes a Buddha. We have no concept of
the “spirit of the deceased returning home”. We remember in our hearts and
minds, our departed ancestors. They shared experiences and adventures and
mostly, it is their compassion and wisdom they leave behind.
During this time, it is our Namu Amida Butsu to express our gratitude,
thankfulness and appreciation to Buddha and to our many ancestors for what
they shared during their lifespan. It is always Namu Amida Butsu.
Gassho
Rev. Seijo Naomi Nakano