Good afternoon, everyone! A warm welcome to all of you today. Ohigan is a highly significant event held during the transitional periods of the seasons. Although the summer heat still lingers, Ohigan offers us a precious opportunity to reflect deeply on our own lives and the lives of our beloved ones who have passed before us. With modern scientific and technological breakthroughs, medicine and engineering have advanced to the point where prosthetics and assistive devices can gracefully support physical limitations. However, what truly awaits us after death?

From a purely scientific standpoint, our thoughts, consciousness, and memories cease to exist when we die, leaving only our physical bones behind. The word “Higan” translates to “the other shore,” metaphorically describing the world beyond this life. It is possible that nothingness lies ahead, as no living person can describe the afterlife with absolute certainty. Most people naturally hope to be liberated from worldly suffering and find peaceful rest. Yet, when we lose someone we deeply cherish, our perspective shifts. It is entirely natural to wish for their continued happiness and peace even after they have departed.

Because the notion of absolute extinction is deeply sorrowful, ancient generations envisioned realms of gods and Buddhas. They sought a sacred place where, alongside eternal beings, their deep connections and love could endure forever. A single human life is indeed fleeting when placed against the vast backdrop of the universe and history—like a single grain of sand carried away by the wind. Nevertheless, the spiritual hope of being embraced by an “eternal presence” grants us the strength to live fully. Where are our loved ones now? In Jodo Shinshu, we entrust them to the path where those who pass away are born as Buddhas in the Pure Land. By reciting the Nembutsu (Namandabu), we voice our heartfelt wish to be reunited one day with our family members who have become Buddhas. Ohigan is a sacred time to direct our thoughts to those who shaped us, and to re-examine our own path. Today, you gathered at the temple to express your deep gratitude to your ancestors and departed loved ones. Thank you very much.