Attempts to popularize pure land Buddhism in Brazil

Attempts to Popularize Pure Land Buddhism in Brazil

Studies have indicated that the traditional Japanese Buddhist groups in Brazil are in a decline in terms of followers. In general, Pure Land and Nichiren Buddhist groups are facing difficult times. Traditionally the images of these groups are attached to the ritual and services to the dead and ancestors, which kept their scope activities to the limits of Japanese community. Soto Zen Buddhism is an exception in this métier. In the 1960’s the group created in São Paulo the first source for a small circle of non-Japanese pioneers interested in the practice of meditation (zazen). Since then, the group reached relatively popularity in the Brazilian society. This study focuses on the Pure Land Buddhist and examines the efforts and attempts of a Pure Land congregation in Brasilia city to overcome the Japanese community barrier and disseminate its activities among non-Japanese Brazilians. Pure Land Buddhism is the largest traditional Buddhist organization in Brazil; it established its temples and facilities mainly in São Paulo and Parana states. However, the temple that was established in Brasilia by the Japanese community is the only one which managed to overcome the community barrier and reached relative success among non-Japanese Brazilians. Scholars have pointed out three major reasons for an ineffective diffusion; very strong and traditional ecclesiastic hierarchy structure, language barrier and the absence of meditation practices. We will discuss how the Pure Land congregation in Brasilia are adapting and innovating their activities in order to reach a larger audience. Is this innovative movement of Pure Land Buddhism restricted to Brasilia or it is something that can happen to other temples located in different regions of the country? Are the followers or sympathizers in a search for a new spirituality or to consume an Asian experience?