Sometimes, being treated differently just because of your gender brings a deep sense of discomfort.
When I saw how Thailand’s female prime minister was dismissed and disrespected, I felt something was fundamentally wrong with the way our world is structured.
Buddhism—especially Jōdo Shinshū—has long responded to this kind of unease.
Throughout history, those who stepped outside traditional gender roles often faced isolation and anxiety.
Even today, the pain of not fitting into society’s expectations—whether through gender identity or marital status—can feel like a loss of belonging.
I grew up in a toxic household shaped by a loveless arranged marriage.
Because of that, I’ve never accepted the idea that “marriage equals happiness.”
In today’s world, even the word “connection” can carry awkward or vulgar undertones.
People who can’t marry, don’t want to marry, or identify as LGBTQ+ are often seen as outsiders.
But Buddhism offers a different gaze.
🪷 Jōdo Shinshū’s Message: You Are Enough, Just As You Are
Jōdo Shinshū teaches “安心” (anshin)—a deep spiritual peace rooted in the unwavering trust that Amida Buddha will save you, just as you are.
This salvation doesn’t depend on effort or merit.
It is the light of Other Power, in which you can affirm your existence without conditions.
The moment you feel, “I am okay as I am,” is found in the practice of nembutsu.
🏯 Temples May Fall Short—But the Teachings Don’t
Temples today often struggle to address modern issues.
That’s why we must focus on the teachings themselves—not as outdated rituals, but as a living philosophy of being human.
Buddhism doesn’t say “You must change.”
It says, “You are already worthy of salvation.”
At Ryukoku University, for example, students can choose restrooms and changing rooms based on their gender identity.
This is Buddhism’s “安心” put into practice.
You don’t need a temple.
You just need a space—personal or communal—where that peace can live.
🌌 Into the Light, With Your Discomfort Intact
Gender, family, and society’s gaze can all make you feel “ugh.”
But that discomfort isn’t a sign of failure.
It may be the very first step toward awakening.
Amida Buddha doesn’t ask whether you’re male or female.
He simply turns to you, just as you are, and says:
“You are enough. I will carry you to the Pure Land, just as you are. Entrust yourself to me.”
That voice becomes the nembutsu, always beside you.
Please, listen closely.
Even your painful “ugh” is embraced—and transformed into light.
Namu Amida Butsu.
（日本語版※後半有料）
性も家族も超えて──違和感のままの私を照らす、ほとけさまの光
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