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Monk Begins 12-YEAR Isolation with Absolutely No Contact with Anyone
Taguchi will become the 118th Jishin since records began in 1699 as he undergoes extreme ascetic training without contact with the outside world.
- Sogaku Taguchi, a 31-year-old Tendai Buddhist monk, has begun a 12-year period of total isolation at the Enryaku-ji temple complex on Mount Hiei in Japan, remaining in seclusion until September 11, 2038.
- Taguchi fulfills the Tendai Buddhist role of a Jishin, or "true watcher," following the teachings of Saicho and Dengyodaishi. He told reporters a desire to live by these teachings "has grown in my heart."
- Physical labor as a form of Zen meditation defines the training, with monks facing freezing winter conditions. The Tendai has historically maintained arduous practices, including the kaihogyo ascetic walk lasting 1000 days over seven years.
- While enforced isolation can cause psychotic symptoms, research suggests chosen seclusion provides meaning. A 2017 UCL study of Augustinian nuns and Cistercian monks found intentional solitude a "necessary condition" for spiritual closeness.
- The program is described as "hellish" and carries risks including illness, though Taguchi remains dedicated. He is only the 118th Jishin since 1699 and the eighth man to undergo this training in the last 80 years.
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Japanese Monk Begins 12-Year Isolation on Mount Hiei in One of Buddhism’s Most Demanding Training Traditions
A 31-year-old Japanese Buddhist monk has begun 12 years of isolation on Mount Hiei, undertaking one of the most demanding forms of spiritual training in Japan. Sogaku Taguchi, chief monk of Nanzambo Temple in Otsu, entered seclusion on September 11. If he completes the practice as planned, he will remain isolated until September 11, 2038, […]
Monk Sogaku Taguchi's unique vow Tokyo: A unique case has emerged in Japan, where 31-year-old monk Sogaku Taguchi has decided to embark on a 12-year rigorous ascetic life. During this time, he will remain completely isolated and remain incommunicado. Sogaku Taguchi lives northeast of Kyoto, Japan.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources15
Leaning Left1Leaning Right1Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 25%
C 50%
R 25%
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