Tendai North America stands in solidarity and support with protesters demanding Black racial justice and an end to police brutality. The police as an institution is a reflection of society at large. All of our institutions must restructure to be equitable and free from oppressive policies.  Black lives matter. We must be committed to anti-racism and social justice until our society and institutions reflect this reality. Skin color does not determine a person’s worth, and no one should be above the law. As Buddhists, we acknowledge that when one person suffers, we all suffer. Everyone has a stake in this movement. Rev. William Barber II has stated that “this is the second reconstruction”. We have the opportunity to make it work this time. Our actions and inactions create the future. May we act with Karuna (Compassion), Prajñā (Wisdom) and Upaya (Skillful Means) in this moment to build a future based on social fairness and integrity.

Welcome to the Tendai Buddhist Institute

Welcome to the homepage of Tendai Buddhist Institute / Jiunzan Tendaiji, founded by Ven. Abbot Paul Monshin Naamon and Rev. Tamami Shumon Naamon in 1995. Tendai Buddhist Institute is a branch temple of Enryakuji Temple on Mt. Hiei, the administrative center of the Tendai School and the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism. As an officially recognized branch temple, Tendai Buddhist Institute is also the first fully authorized Tendai Buddhist training center for the education of priests and the establishment new Tendai Buddhist temples, dharma centers, and sanghas in North America and beyond.

Tendai Buddhist Institute is also known as “Jiunzan Tendaiji,” which is our official Japanese name, registered with Enryakuji Temple. This name was given to our temple by Rev. Shōshin Ichishima, who trained Ven. Abbot Paul Monshin Naamon and Rev. Tamami Shumon Naamon in Japan. Jiunzan Tendaiji means “Tendai Temple of Compassionate Cloud Mountain,” and meant to reflect the natural surroundings of the Berkshires. For more information, please check out our About Us page.

Starting Your Practice

As a comprehensive and holistic Mahayana Buddhist tradition, there are many forms that an individual’s personal practice may take. Different temples and teachers may emphasize particular teachings or practice, but ultimately Tendai Buddhist practice is customizable depending on your needs and inclinations. Therefore, it is important for practice to be guided by an authentically trained teacher.

• For the daily practice manual click here.
• For more information about basic Buddhist practices.
• If you have any questions about starting your practice, please feel free to contact us.