Shin Reader: The Awareness of Self

Gyodo Haguri

The Awareness of Self (1967) is a published translation of Gyodo Haguri’s (1881-1965) classic book Shinshin no Kakumei (1953). Rev. Haguri was a Shin Buddhist priest whose keen appreciation for Shinran’s teaching was controversial from the standpoint of Hongwanji doctrine. In this book, he explores the question, “What is Shin Buddhist awakening?” According to Rev. Haguri, it is to become aware of the true self, and to gain a new appreciation of life from this transforming insight. In essence, a person can eventually attain Buddhahood through the process of maturing spiritually. However, Rev. Haguri explains, it is impossible for spiritually immature people to perceive or to appreciate the world of awakening. 

Therefore, we must turn our attention first to seeing the true self, which provides the window to reality, or things as they are. The true self is blind ignorance, self-centeredness, the instinctive ego. It defies detection through ordinary thinking. Awakening to the true self requires that we constantly listen to and reflect upon the teachings. It demands our greatest sacrifice, for the goal is priceless. According to Rev. Haguri, “Generally speaking, people are considered to be good and faithful followers if they lead a moral life, attend church services, and participate in welfare activities. In Shin Buddhism, however, while these practices are encouraged, they alone do not constitute the Buddhist way of life. What is critically important is that the teachings radically transform our way of thinking and living…” The Awareness of Self is available as a Kindle eBook edition from the Buddhist Education Center with prologue and epilogue by Dr. Taitetsu Unno.