Shōshinge
The Shōshinge or The Hymn of True Faith was written by the founder of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism, Shinran. It consists of an outline of the Pure Land Buddhism teaching according to Shinran's personal interpretation. The structure is as follows:
- Homage to Amida
- Adoration to Amida and Shakyamuni Buddhas
- Exhortation to take refuge in Amida
- Teachings of the Patriarchs:
- Exhortation
In Higashi Hongan-ji there are 10 styles of chanting the Shoshinge and in Nishi Hongan-ji 5. Only two or three styles are used regularly. The everyday style is fast, light and monotone whereas the formal styles are often slower, higher toned and more rhythmical.