Honen (1133-1212), founder of Pure Land Buddhism (Jodo-shu) in Japan, was born in Mimasaka Province (modern Okayama). After two decades of training on Mt. Hiei, he attained enlightenment at age 43 reading the Kuanjing-shu of Tang master Shandao, formulating the doctrine of senju nembutsu — exclusive recitation of “Namu Amida Butsu” as the path to salvation for all. His 1175 establishment at Yoshimizu in Kyoto launched what became the largest movement in Japanese Buddhism. Mounting opposition from established sects culminated in the 1207 Kennei Persecution, in which the 75-year-old Honen was exiled to Sanuki and key disciples including Shinran were dispersed across the provinces. He was pardoned in 1211, returned to Kyoto, and died the following year at Chion-in, the headquarters of Jodo-shu.